The steeple ..........................................................................................
In his studies of body movements, Ray Birdwhistell noted that confident, supe-
rior types of people whose gestures tend to be minimal or restricted ‘steeple’
their fingers to demonstrate their confident attitude. You can achieve this posi-
tion by letting your finger tips lightly touch like the steeple on a building.This gesture is also called the ‘power position’ because it’s often used in a
superior/subordinate interaction. Lawyers, accountants, and anyone in a
position of authority frequently give instructions or advice with their fingers
in this position.The raised steeple: When the fingers are raised in front of the chest, the
speaker is giving thoughts or opinions.
Use the raised steeple position judiciously. Taken to extremes it can
convey an arrogant ‘know-it-all’ attitude. If you tilt your head backwards
when taking this position don’t be surprised if you’re perceived as smug
or arrogant.The lowered steeple: When you’re listening you may find your fingers in
the lowered steeple position (see Figure 9-11). You look interested and
ready to respond when you put your hands together like this. Women
tend to use this position more often than the raised steeple.Figure 9-10:
The
chopping
gesture
demon-
strates clear
conviction.154 Part III: The Trunk: Limbs and Roots