As designers, we are lucky enough to get to interact with many different types of people during the course of our work. We observe people using technology and proposed design solutions. While working on our projects, we collaborate directly with our team, clients, and stakeholders to bring a solution to life. All of this interaction exposes us to lots of body language. The language of the body offers up many hints and insights into what people are thinking and feeling. It's been said that our bodies tell us what is really on our minds, and it’s important to know not only what others might be telling you but what you could be telling them.

It's important for designers to have a fundamental understanding of body language and what are key signs to look for when interacting with users or project teams. There are key patterns that, when observed correctly, can tell you if someone is supportive of your idea, hiding their true feelings, or simply sitting back and daydreaming the meeting away.