From: bostonherald.com

The next time you hear someone at work say, “Please have a seat anywhere and make yourself comfortable,” consider this a colossal opportunity to stand apart, demonstrate respect while earning respect and show you know what a difference seating makes.

There are dynamics, power implications, even cachet involved in the simple act of taking a seat. The savvy business professional will carefully consider the implications for private office meetings, conference rooms and dining tables. Where, when and how you sit, and where you seat your guests, conveys powerful information.

Hosts should take the power seat at the head of the table — and that should be facing the door. That puts them in total control of their meetings, aware of who is coming, going, approaching — and not distracted as you would be if you must turn to look.

In a boardroom, place the most important person to your right. Co-presenters should be seated directly across from the presenter so that, together, they can control the room — through eye-contact, gesturing and body language.

In a restaurant, guests should be provided with the window view or more comfortable seat.

As a guest, you should always wait until your host is seated. Wait … seconds or even minutes, if required. This will be noticed and appreciated.

If you have the option of sitting across the desk or at an angle in an office, take the angle and eliminate the barrier.

If you have a choice between the most comfortable and least comfortable chair, consider avoiding the temptation to appear too relaxed and comfortable.

How you sit is also important.

Sit two-thirds of the way back in your chair, which automatically propels your focus forward. In Great Britain, they teach the “invisible V” ­— between you and the back of the chair.

Keep your hands in view, on the table. Maintain good posture. Keep your feet on the floor and your lower body closed — no open crossed legs, and no raised feet, which are offensive in some cultures.

The simple acts of seating a room and sitting convey more impressions and information than you might suspect, so approach it with the same care you would any other form of communication.

Judith Bowman is president and founder of Protocol Consultants International and author of “Don’t Take the Last Donut” and “How to Stand Apart @ Work” Email her at Judith@protocolconsultants.com.