5 Potent Power Moves

1. Don't end every sentence with a question mark? Have you noticed that many women turn a sentence into a question as if they want you to agree because they're uncertain of their facts and opinions? I wouldn't feel comfortable putting them in charge of a strategically important project, or even trust them to competently answer the most basic questions about the business, would you?

2. Stand/sit tall and don't twiddle your hair. Standing or sitting up straight with your shoulders back communicates confidence. Fidgeting with your hair sends the signal you're not certain of your own opinions or are feeling intimidated or nervous.

3. Choose your vocabulary wisely. Some words are more powerful than others. Expressions such as "I was like..." or "whatever" aren't very powerful, so use them sparingly for effect. Swearing may get attention, but is generally considered unprofessional no matter the person's rank or gender, although -- what the hell -- it can be effective now and then! If you laughed just now and got the point, it's because humor is a very powerful communication technique, too. But, watch out. Humor can work against you when used to put down others. Last, it always works to your advantage to use phrases common to the group, so make sure to mix in layman's language, especially when you know some people aren't familiar with a term or concept.

4. Dress and act as though you already have the next step up. In my first position at AOL as a call-center rep, I often dressed and acted more professionally than my colleagues. People in other departments thought I was a supervisor or manager because of it; it was a huge lesson in how dress impacts how you're perceived. Fashion experts advise you to dress for the job you want to have. Given the more casual workplace environment of the Now Economy, that's not always so easy to do. But you can always exude confidence beyond your current position.

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5. Notice achievements and give positive feedback. The old management model said, if you don't hear from me, know I'm satisfied. But in the often turbulent atmosphere of Now Economy business, your co-workers -- even those above you in the hierarchy -- want to know you recognize and appreciate their efforts. People who do this easily are emotionally attractive. Gaining good favor is powerful.

During her 10-year career at America Online, Mary Foley learned that the only way to thrive in today's world is to be bold, positive and courageous -- bodacious! Get a free copy of Mary's e-book "10 Bodacious Ways for a Bodacious Career" at www.gobodacious.com/ebook.