6. Pursed lips
Anyone whose lips are constantly pressed tightly together like the former US President George W. Bush has a problem. Tension in the lip and jaw area is a clear sign of strain, generally nervousness or strong emotion. Occasionally however it also indicates intense intellectual activity and can be a sign that something completely new has just occurred to your counterpart or that they have changed their mind.
7. Turning the head
Anyone who suddenly turns their head to the side and looks away is most likely no longer sure of their subject matter or has a completely different opinion from you. Young children turn their heads away when they feel uncomfortable around officious adults; managers do it too, and for exactly the same reasons.
8. The cold shoulder
If your counterpart turns away from you, something is not right. They push their upper body forward to protect themselves and literally give you the “cold shoulder“. A good salesperson always sits openly and straight facing the customer, thereby signaling sympathy, confidence and a readiness to talk.
9. The pistol gesture
Hands clasped firmly together with both thumbs pointing upwards, the index fingers stretched out in front and pointing at the other person; this is someone who is unsure of themselves entering self-defense mode! Avoid this gesture wherever possible as it is not well received by people who understand body language.
10. Hand in front of the mouth
The other person has known for some time what they want to say and is waiting impatiently to say it. In actual fact, they have already formed their opinion and have not really been listening for a while now.
11. Holding the nose
Before an animal eats, it sniffs at its food. Anyone who holds their nose whilst listening is critical and is looking to be convinced.

Author
Tim Cole
BusinessVillage