There is much more to political communication than the words themselves. Even the most skilled orator in the world knows that their spoken language must be complemented by their physical one.
Over the last few months of the coronavirus pandemic response our team have been analysing the non verbal communication used by politicians, doctors, and public figures around the globe. We have discovered a wide range of gestures, facial expressions, and postures which give an insight into the speaker´s thoughts or intentions.
Many politicians and public figures are actively aware of the messages that their gestures or facial expressions convey to audiences. They spend time crafting these messages, and are frequently coached in the nuances of body language and persuasive communication. Favoured moves are those such as the emphatic ´precision grip´ or ´hand steepling´ to show expertise in a subject, both featured in the photos below.
At times, however, we see a subtle facial expression or movement that contradicts the verbal message being put across, and in those moments we have a tiny window into the thoughts or emotional state of the speaker.
Let´s take a look at the more common body language cues that have appeared repeatedly in virus briefings or press conferences around the world.
Pointing
If we look at these three examples along with the first image in this article, the common gesture is a pointing finger. This transmits a message of authority, confidence, and focus. Depending on the context it can be read as accusatory, reprimanding, or powerful. Its use elevates the pointer to a higher status than his or her audience and establishes hierarchy.
In the middle image the point is even further extended with an object, in this case a pen, which extends the reach of this gesture. When accompanied with drawn eyebrows, or direct eye contact, the use of this hand gesture can feel intimidating to a recipient.
The direction of the finger point is very important. When a finger points upwards instead of directly towards the audience, it can convey confidence, or approval.
Arms tucked inwards
The non verbal messaging in these two images is one of concern, or insecurity. With arms drawn tightly into the body, we read that the person is protecting themselves. Both speakers have their fists drawn close to the podium so that their hands are barely seen, and fingers curled inwards. Their accompanying facial expressions reflect the concern and seriousness of the situation. When a politician unintentionally draws their body inwards like this it might be in a moment of insecurity or uncertainty. Closed fists can also symbolise solidarity when used in a specific manner.
Their closed fists tell a very different story to an image of a raised fist, pumping the air, accompanied with a smile. In this case a closed fist would symbolise victory, power, triumph, or celebration. Turn that smile upside down and the raised fist would become aggressive, threatening, angry...
Precision Grip
Precision grips consist of a closed fist, with the thumb resting on top of the middle joint of the index finger. They are used for a variety of fine motor movements such as writing, eating, painting etc. They are also one of the most commonly used gestures for many Western politicians, and one that we see many use so often that it resembles a tic or natural reflex. Why is it so common? Well, the movement communicates cognitive thinking when we are trying to make a complex or very precise point. It is emphatic, and strong. However, with overuse the gesture can lose its power.
Open Palms
In the first two images we see open body language with palms visible to the audience. The non verbal messaging here is welcoming, reassuring, embracing, and inclusive. A message of we are in this together. Open palms generate a sense of trustworthiness and acceptance. Barack Obama frequently used and open gesture like this as though he were ´hugging´ the audience.
The wide powerful stance also conveys confidence and will in turn help the speaker feel more confident. The smiling facial expression on the left complements the positive message.
Looking to the image on the right we see an amalgamation of the open palm and pointed gesture. The chopping action of the hand decisiveness, and is often used to show that the speaker is unswayed in their message. With the absence of a facial expression to read in this photo it is rendered a serious gesture.
Touching the Face
Touching our faces is a reflex, an involuntary response. It is one that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been vying for us to stop over the last few months, however, it is a tough habit to beat. These images show face or head touching in moments of public address and the unconscious movements may tell us something about the speakers. Touching our neck, face, or head is often something we do to calm ourselves down. Contact between fingers and face engages a specific area of the brain´s cerebral cortex and causes a unique sensation. These three photos may have been captured in moments of stress, pressure, or fear for those featured.
So, next time you watch the news or see a politician in a briefing we encourage you to reflect on these points, and take a look at what their body language is saying.
Is it the same as their verbal message?
Can you read beneath the gesture to tell what they are thinking?
Are they persuading you of something with their non verbal cues?
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