How to appear thoughtful and engaged without saying a word.
You've got a bunch of meetings coming up, but do you have your nodding strategy ready?
A solid nodding strategy could mean the difference between seeming like you understand what's going on and losing a job.
More seasoned professionals may think they can just nod the same way they did in their last meeting, but that's not an optionâ – âpeople will notice. Consider this: when someone's nodding the wrong way don't you immediately lose trust in them? I know I do.
To help you keep your nodding game fresh, here are nine nodding strategies you can choose from for your next meeting.
1. The Slow Nod
The slow nod is great for when someone is explaining something that makes no sense. Hopefully they'll see you nodding slowly and realize how ridiculous they sound.
2. The Slow Nod Followed by a Fast Nod
The slow nod followed by a fast nod is great to let the person talking know that you didn't get it at first, but you totally get it now, even if you still don't agree.
3. Head Shake Followed by a Fast Nod
A head shake followed by a fast nod shows that you didn't remember that thing you were supposed to remember but now you totally remember it. This is a really convincing strategy when you're on the hook for something that you never intend to do.
4. Side to Side Nod
Use this nod when you want to pretend you're considering something. It says – that could work, – while also saying it's not the best idea, and you're still waiting to hear something that'll really blow you away.
5. Let Me Write That Down Nod
This is the nod you use when you're pretending to write that down.
6. Let Me Think About That Nod
This nod will buy you some time before you have to make a decision. Put your chin in one hand, then both hands, then rest your chin on your knuckles, then repeat.
7. Nod With a Sigh
A nod with a sigh lets your coworker know you don't want to say yes, but you will say yes, because you're a professional.
8. Nodding Off Nod
This is a great nod for when you're trying to keep it together after a late night or when your coworker keeps talking beyond the point of reason.
9. The Almost Nod
This nod says, – you almost convinced me, but not quite, keep trying.
Hope this helps you find the perfect nod to fit your particular meeting situation so that no one will ever suspect you aren't really listening. If you enjoyed this, hit the green – Recommend – heart button below!
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Stephen Hodgkiss
Chief Engineer at MarketHive
markethive.com
Alan Zibluk – Markethive Founding Member