Body language expert says subtle move 'instantly' makes you look friendly

People often say that actions speak louder than words. Without using a single sentence, you can appear instantly more friendly and welcoming to others, and all it tends to take is a simple head gesture, an expert claims.

Body language expert Adrianne Carter shared with her TikTok followers that your body tends to give off unspoken signals to other people you make conversation with - from friends and family to colleagues and strangers. And, your head can help people judge if you are a friendly character or not.

Adrianne has more than 25 years of experience, beginning as a trained counsellor and psychotherapist. She is also certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Natural Success Psychology Coaching, and a qualified Facial Action Coding System coder.

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She said: "Do you want to look instantly friendlier? Well, there's a body language move that you can do right now to make yourself look a little bit more friendly, and it's this. Just tilt your head slightly. It can be either side, whichever feels most natural to you, and people will instantly perceive you as more friendly."

She added: "It's less threatening. You know, confidence and strong eye contact can be quite domineering. However, that little head tilt and maybe a gentle smile show you in a much more friendly light."

Several body language experts back this idea that a small head tilt can help you come across as much more friendly than, for example, keeping your head straight. Some suggest that a head tilt shows you are mentally processing what's being said and are focused on the conversation.

Others suggest this is a biological response as, by tilting their head, someone is exposing their neck (typically a vulnerable area), which is a sign of trust and comfort in the interaction. It is thought that this gesture makes a person seem more open and less aggressive, creating a more positive and relaxed atmosphere.

However, forcing a head tilt when the intention is not genuine can also come across as such if one is not careful or considerate. According to The Trust Ambassador: "If you physically try to tilt your head, you are likely overdoing it, and the result will not be what you wanted. Insincere or put-on gestures often send the opposite message from what was intended."

Body language can often be a subtle sign that isn't being spoken about. Body language and behaviour expert Judi James recently wrote for the Mirror about Kerry Katona's 'act of emotional maturity' as she reaches out to ex-husband Brian McFadden.

The former Atomic Kitten star, from Warrington, donned an oversized green pleated blouse and a huge smile for Instagram photos. Judi wrote: "It's an act of emotional maturity that can be challenging for any exes when they put any grievances, resentments and differences to one side to show up for their kids, but the result can often be the kind of forced-looking, effortful smiling that we can see here as Kerry and Brian 'bookend' daughter Molly."