Depending on their level of concern they may grip their arms so tightly that
their fingers and knuckles turn white.Crossed arms and clenched fists
Cross your arms and clench your fists, and you look as if you’re heading
towards a fight. This position demonstrates hostility as well as defensive-
ness, and can lead to aggressive behaviour. Don’t be surprised if your jaw
clenches and your face goes red too – individual gestures work in combina-
tion with others to convey attitudes.If someone crosses his arms and clenches his fists when you’re speaking to
him, open your arms and expose your palms in a non-threatening, submissive
position. This posture has a calming effect and the other person is more
likely to drop his aggressive stance and discuss things in a more reasonable
manner.The crossed-arms, clenched-fists posture is a sign of control and authority.
Police officers who cross their arms tend to clench their fists as well to indi-
cate that they’re the boss and aren’t to be trifled with. Interestingly, people
who carry weapons seldom cross their arms because they already feel pro-
tected by their weapon.Crossed arms and thumbs up
A typical pose that superior type, up-and-coming young men adopt when
engaging with their manager in the work environment is to stand with their
arms crossed over their chests with their thumbs pointing upwards (see
Figure 8-1). This position demonstrates both apprehension and confidence.
Their uneasiness is conveyed through the crossed arms while the thumbs up
position shows self-confidence and a sense of ‘coolness’ and control.When you first meet a group of people, you can demonstrate your status and
superiority by not folding your arms. Shake hands firmly, stand at the appro-
priate distance, and keep your hands by your sides or in the power position
with one hand resting in the other at waist height.Richard was recently promoted to partner in a prestigious city law firm.
Although considered to be extremely talented and an asset to the firm he also
has the reputation of being somewhat brash and arrogant. After shaking
hands with the firm’s senior partner at a social event for the newly promoted
lawyers, Richard folded his arms with both thumbs pointing upward and
engaged his boss in conversation. As he spoke he used his thumbs to ges-
ture. This pose showed that while he was seemingly full of self-confidence he
also felt the need for some protection.Because of the structure of women’s upper torsos they cross their arms
lower on the body than men do. Girls entering puberty tend to adopt this
protective position more frequently than more mature females.128 Part III: The Trunk: Limbs and Roots