Non-Verbal Micro-Skills
Open Positioning

Adopt body positions that invite engagement and avoid defensive or closed-off appearances.

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What it is

Physical positioning and stance that appears welcoming, accessible, and confident. Avoids barriers between speaker and audience while maintaining professional boundaries and personal space.

Before & after

Before

Arms crossed, hands in pockets, standing behind barriers, turning body away from audience.

After

Arms at sides or gesturing naturally, facing audience, removing physical barriers when possible.

When you’ll use it

Networking events: Stand with arms uncrossed, body slightly angled toward others in conversation

Team meetings: Avoid barriers like crossed arms, closed laptop, or defensive positioning

Presentations: Keep space between you and podium/table, face audience directly

Difficult conversations: Maintain open posture to reduce perceived threat or defensiveness

Pro tip

Uncross everything - arms, legs, hands. Face your audience with your whole body.

Questions & answers

3 questions

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Audio examples

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Audio Examples

Listen to clear demonstrations of open positioning with before/after examples and guided explanations.

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