The Power of Hair
An expert behavorialist offers tips on how to command attention during a meeting or presentation — using your tresses.
Playing with you hair can be a powerful thing. We’re not talking about twisting vapidly while looking bored and staring into space. No, according to expert behavorialist Joe Navarro, formerly of the FBI, there is a specific set of hair gestures that communicate confidence and control that are particularly useful during stressful meetings and important presentations. Here are some of the movements you can use in a professional group setting to assure everyone around you that you’re completely collected.
Pulls hair with clenched fists. = “Game on.”
Tightening your ponytail or top-knot in a deliberate motion says you’re ready for anything. “It’s the movement of a determined, fearless woman” says Navarro. “She is saying, ‘I am sure. I am powerful. Nothing can hold me back.’”
Sweeps hair into a pencil roll. = “Let’s get this done.”
Much like rolling up your sleeves, when you get your hair up and out of the way, it signifies seriousness. You don’t want anything getting between you and the task at hand. “We are looking at a leader, not a follower,” says Navarro.
Pushes hair behind ears. = “Interesting.”
When it’s someone else’s turn to speak, it’s important to show them they have your undivided attention. Orient yourself directly at the speaker, and move your hair out of the way. Navarro says this puts you on the power position even when you don’t have the floor. “You are saying, ‘Go ahead, impress me.’”
Pulls hair to mouth. = “Back in a moment.”
Sometimes you need a minute to recalibrate, even if you can’t leave the room. This gesture gives you a mini-break, keeping the attention on you while you plot your next move. “You are masking your face with your hair,” says Navarro, “checking out for a bit.”
Never let dry hair get in the way of your success. Keep it touchable and realize your full expressive potential.
