Watch someone who wants you to come on board with her way of think-
ing. See if she holds both hands in front with her, palms facing her body
as if she’s embracing another person. If you find yourself using this ges-
ture when you speak you may also be attempting to grasp your own sug-
gestion or idea.The downward facing palm ...............................................................
Turn your hand over with your palm facing downwards and Bingo!, you’re
projecting power and authority (see Figure 9-3). This position is used for
giving orders where no room exists for discussion. Gesturing with your palm
facing downwards says, ‘I’m in control here. Do as I say!’You have to be careful when using this gesture, especially if your fingers are
tightly closed because of its association with dominance and tyranny. Think
of the Third Reich and the Nazi salute if you’re in doubt. Hitler purposely selected
this gesture. He instinctively understood the intimidation it conveyed.If you want to calm down a tense situation or ask for quiet, hold out both
your palms slightly pointed downwards with your fingers slightly separated
and gently beat them up and down. Make sure that your fingers are relaxed
or you may just be fanning the flames of the fire!Figure 9-3:
The
downward
facing palm
conveys
dominance
and control.
Chapter 9: It's in the Palm of Your Hand 143