The hands carry meaning at a tremendous speed.
Along with facial expressions and the emotion revealed by our eyes, the hands broadcast to people not only what we mean, but also what we want them to do.
People look to our hands to reveal our intentions and focus. In an instant, our hands tell others what we want or expect from them and divulge the real meaning behind our words and actions.
Consider the power of a pointed index finger. A pointed finger is almost always an accusation or a demand for emphasis. It directs attention away from the pointer toward another person or object and is considered rude in some cultures.
If done repeatedly or without interruption, a pointed finger suggests something unusual is taking place and asks others to look that way. If held toward the sky, a pointed finger asks others to pause and pay particular attention to a specific idea. When a pointed finger moves up and down in a wag, it becomes a scold or reprimand and is viewed as condescending or patronizing.
While pointed fingers convey a great deal to others, it is the open palm that commands the most attention. An open palm is an invitation of sorts and is used so often that we sometimes forget the many meanings it carries. Beyond the initiation of a handshake or an extended palm invitation to hug, there are numerous other shared understandings that open palms encourage.
We wave at others with an open palm to get their attention and we raise our hands in learning settings so others will call on us. Similarly, people move their hands up and down with their palms toward the sky to signal excitement or to get others to cheer. In the same vein, we blow kisses from an open palm.
We use our palms to encourage or restrain the movement of others. For example, we hold the palm high above the body and toward someone approaching to stop them or to slow them down. Conversely, with an open palm pointing upward, we move our fingers back and forth to tell people to keep coming or moving forward. We hold our hands out with palms facing downward and move them up and down to ask others to become quiet or to sit down.
We signal we don’t understand with arms wide, palms up, and a shrug. To make a point, we open the palm, turn, and move toward a screen or exhibit to ask those in the audience to focus their attention. In fact, presenters often rotate their forearms so their palms are facing each other as if they are holding an idea in the air between their hands.
The list goes on and on. Open palms carry the meaning of an invitation or request in a way others can’t miss. If you underestimate the influence of the open palm to create an opening, try this simple gesture in your next meeting: When you have something you want to add or say, just flash an open palm. Keep your arm slightly raised toward the center of the table or room and open your palm at a slight angle. Lean slightly forward and keep it there for a moment or two. If the person speaking doesn’t ask what you want to add, others will quickly turn to you, give you their attention, and wait for you to say something.
That is the power of an open palm. What are your palms communicating about you?
A Daily Dispatch from the Front Lines of Leadership.
