Your credibility counts: Show people they can trust you

Win over superiors and colleagues at the workplace with these tips:

• Watch your body language. Your body language is effective if it communicates the message you want it to communicate. If your non-verbal signals match your words, you'll not only communicate more clearly, you'll also be perceived as being charismatic. Eye contact, for instance, helps establishes rapport, convince the other person that you're trustworthy, and are displaying interest. During a conversation or presentation, it is important to look into the other person's eyes if possible and maintain contact for a reasonable amount of time. Don't overdo it though. Holding eye contact for 3-5 seconds with others is ideal.
• Be truthful. Don't pretend to know when you really don't know an answer. And if you happen to make a mistake, admit it right away. Better not to make promises that you can't keep, and best to abide by those you commit to. If you want to be seen as dependable, being honest is the best way.
• Be a good listener. You can learn a lot from the people around you if you keep your ears open.
• Be natural. If you fake your emotions, the chances are you will be found out - sooner or later. Try not to hide the 'real you' either from your boss or from your colleagues. People will accept you more readily when they understand who you are and where you're coming from.