Fremont: Peter F. Drucker once said, “The most important thing in communication us hearing what isn’t said. Body language is a very powerful tool. We had body language even before we had speech and apparently 80 percent of what we understand in a conversation is read through the body, not the words. When you go to meet a prospective investor or a customer, your words to have an impact, but the body language has to compliment it in order for the other person to fully agree to it. There is no point in putting across a business plan as if you are reciting a poem; the right expressions can work wonders.

Body language, technically known as ‘Kinesics’, plays a very important role in the communication. So what are the body language blunders that entrepreneurs should avoid while meeting a prospective investor or client?

Fidgeting

Fidgeting is one of the most common signs of stress. Many people involve in tapping their hands or feet, or playing with their pens, phones, or anything on the table. Entrepreneurs should avoid this as it clearly indicates that they are stressed out and are not confident. While meeting a prospective investor, it might also convey that you are not interested in listening to what they are saying, which might reduce the chances to get the financial backing from them.

If you are nervous before or during making a presentation, you can excuse yourself and have a glass of water, or make the conversation interactive so that you get time to think about. Hence, avoid fidgeting at all costs and prepare well before putting across your business plan.