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I am starting a new job soon, and I would like some advice on how to keep an expressionless face when someone is talking to me. My face gives away my thoughts, and that phenomenon is not a useful trait when one is working, especially if one does not agree with what is being said. Also, how does a person respond neutrally if they think they are hearing BS? I have difficulty doing that too. I normally say nothing, but then the person feels I am not listening (I am) or my face instantly gives my thoughts away. I get along well with coworkers; I am just as transparent as newly cleaned glass. Any advice would be appreciated.
well, being new at a job is rife with all kinds of problems, you don't know who to trust, you don't want to offend ANYONE and you'll probably be walking on tiptoes around the office until you get the lay of the land and a handle on the climate.
just keep busy busy busy so no one can corner you in the coffee break room until you feel more at ease in your new surroundings.....
do you feel socially awkward? if you do, then join a few meetup.com groups where you can hone your interactions with people you don't see all that often, so any faux pas committed won't be life or death....
also: The basic principles of social interactions can be learned from books, or even a socially savvy friend or relative. Don't be shy about asking for help from those who know you best.
There are courses everywhere in effective communication techniques... why not try just a basic course in public speaking where your teacher and classmates can help you develop a more polished and relaxed manner?
I am starting a new job soon, and I would like some advice on how to keep an expressionless face when someone is talking to me. My face gives away my thoughts, and that phenomenon is not a useful trait when one is working, especially if one does not agree with what is being said. Also, how does a person respond neutrally if they think they are hearing BS? I have difficulty doing that too. I normally say nothing, but then the person feels I am not listening (I am) or my face instantly gives my thoughts away. I get along well with coworkers; I am just as transparent as newly cleaned glass. Any advice would be appreciated.
That's a tough one. I am the opposite. My face doesn't give anything away. I learned early to keep a neutral face. Maybe from being one of seven kids lying about who took the last cookie.
Perhaps when you hear something you know is BS, train your mind to automatically think of something else that could render your face expressionless. Like doing dishes or something.
That's a tough one. I am the opposite. My face doesn't give anything away. I learned early to keep a neutral face. Maybe from being one of seven kids lying about who took the last cookie.
Perhaps when you hear something you know is BS, train your mind to automatically think of something else that could render your face expressionless. Like doing dishes or something.
Good idea. That reminds me of some sage advice my ex-boyfriend received from his doctor. He was one of those guys who reacted prematurely if you catch my drift, and it was a real problem for him in his relationships. His doctor said, "First, let's try a solution without using medication. Whenever you feel it happening too fast, think about something really boring like mowing the grass rather than sex." Although it didn't completely solve the problem, it helped a lot. It's a prime example of the power of mind over matter. So much of our reality is shaped by our thinking and perception of it.
Agreed. Practice remaining calm throughout your workday conversations...find your center, don't let anyone sway you too far with negative comments or with positive comments. Just be neutral.
Honestly I don’t do the poker face even at new jobs. I can’t lie or hide my feelings no matter what I’ve tried so I don’t bother and usually people appreciate my honesty. It’s backfired a few times during meetings when I’ve been asked to comment on something that I would have preferred to remain silent on. Overall though I approach work and life in the same way: like it or leave it I am an open book.
I am pretty emotionless and poker faced at work. However the downside to that is people think your a robot or boring. However if you don't really care what other people think , then it's a good way to stay out of any drama at work
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