Bodyrocking

The technique of bodyrocking is the non-verbal version of a false time constraint. You use your body-language to display that you are on the way and won't stay more than a few minutes. This takes their pressure and fear that you could be a boring guy that they can't get rid of. But in reality Bodyrocking is only a technique to make the start easier, as soon as the interaction goes well and they notice your value, they will want you to stay. More Informations: False Time Constraint

Example

A group of friends sits at the bar. You walk up, stand at an angle with one foot pointing away, your weight leaning slightly toward the door, and say: "Quick question before I head back to my friends." Your body says "short visit". They relax and answer. Five minutes later they are asking you questions, and you turn your shoulders toward them and settle in.

How to do it

• Stand side-on instead of square in front of the group.
• Keep your weight on the back foot and a shoulder angled toward the exit, like someone passing through.
• Add a short line, such as a quick question, so words and body match.
• When they ask follow-up questions, laugh or turn toward you, turn in too and stop rocking.

Common mistakes

Swaying nervously or checking exits all the time looks anxious, not relaxed. Stay calm and move only a little. If the group gives short answers and looks away, they are not interested (see IODs), so take the cue and leave. Bodyrocking suits a fast approach where you join a group that was not expecting you, and it helps with approach anxiety because the exit is built in.