Is professional development one of your resolutions? According to a Harvard and Stanford study, one’s career success is based 85% on social skills and only 15% on technical skills. These statistics mean that it is crucial to set yourself and your body language apart from the competition so that you can become more confident and more credible.

Here are 3 Body Language Habits of Successful Women:

1. Handshake

Like it or not, one is judged by the quality of their handshake. To initiate a handshake, smile and lean forward about 20 degrees. Then, extend your right hand keeping your fingers together with your thumb up and open.

Slide your hand into the other person’s so that the web of skin between thumb and forefingers touches the other’s (web-to-web).  Squeeze firmly, but not bone-crushing, and pump twice from the elbow.

A good handshake comes from the elbow; the forearm remains firm. Practice your body language and handshake with a trusted colleague, family member or friend. When you are networking events, always keep your right hand free.  You can always have a beverage in your left hand but make sure you are ready to shake with the right hand.

2. Posture

Posture says a lot about your personality.  Make sure that you always stand straight with your arms to your side, feet shoulder width apart and of course, head up.

When you are talking with someone, face them directly. If your colleague is too close for your liking, pivot every so often. Americans prefer at least a foot of space between another.  A quick way to check your posture is while you are waiting at a stoplight or stop sign.  This will get you in the habit of correcting yourself automatically.

3. Eye contact

In America, maintaining eye contact is vital as it indicates trustworthiness. However, staring can be considered threatening. With business associates, keep eye contact from the top of the eyebrows to the bridge of the person’s nose.  This will allow you to make a connection with the other person and help them feel more trust and comfort with you.

Do you have any body language dilemmas? Share them in the comments below and any other etiquette questions you have.