More on How to Read Body Language: The Eyes Have It

Welcome to 2010!  As we move into the New Year, we thought it would be fun to have another go at reading some body language.  More than just a parlor trick, reading body language can be particularly useful on the job, especially when dealing with more challenging coworker issues human resource personnel are prone to do.  Of course the one thing to always remember is this:  People are rather unpredictable.  While reading body language is hardly infallible, it is certainly a tool that can help shed some light on those tougher situations.  Here’s what the eyes may be telling you:

 Looking Up:  When a person looks up, he or she may be trying to bring something from their memory to the surface.  In general, looking up and to the left indicates recalling a specific memory while up and to the right indicates creativity.  Creativity while talking sometimes results in lies, as we well know.  However, there is the rare individual who flip-flops these two and creates to the left while recalling to the right.  Then again, unsightly spots on the ceiling have been known to make the more observant look upwards as well.

Looking Down:  When someone looks down while talking to you, it may be a sign of submission, even guilt.  Down and to the left is often a signal that the person is talking to themselves inwardly, while down and to the right often indicates they’re thinking of something that has emotional significance.  

Pupils:  Oftentimes, when someone is interested in something you have to say, their pupils will dilate.  Change to a dull topic, and the pupils will shrink back once again.

Blinking:  Most people blink about 6 – 10 times per minute.  While blinking more may be an indication of flirting, it also may be an indication that the person’s contact lenses are dry.

Eye Contact:  Most of us know that eye contact shows an interest in what someone has to say, but constant eye contact can be more aggressive.  Someone who doesn’t look away may be subconsciously starting an old fashioned stare-down.  If little or no contact is being made, it may be because the person doesn’t like you, or they may be shy or nervous. For some cultures, eye contact is not acceptable behavior, so if someone won’t look directly at you, it may be best to avoid any feelings of offense.  They might simply be showing you respect.

Overall, body language reading can be fun and helpful.  The more you use it in your daily life, the more it will become second nature.  Always take into account differing personality types, and remember, although the eyes may have it, humans are a tricky bunch that don’t care for following all the rules.  Sometimes there really is just a spot on the ceiling.