12 Subtle Body Language Tricks That Make You Look Powerful
"Before you open your mouth, your body has already spoken for you." — Amy Cuddy
Why Body Language Matters More Than You Think
We are biologically wired to judge power and dominance in seconds — long before words come into play. Studies show that up to 93% of communication is nonverbal (Mehrabian, 1971).
Powerful body language can help you command respect, signal confidence, and influence how others perceive you — even in silent moments.
1️⃣ Take Up More Space
High-status individuals naturally expand their posture rather than shrink. Spread your arms slightly when sitting, keep your shoulders broad, and avoid hunching.
Research: Expansive poses activate feelings of power internally and affect how others perceive your status (Carney, Cuddy, & Yap, 2010).
2️⃣ Slow Down Your Movements
Fast, jerky movements suggest nervousness. Move deliberately — whether it’s turning your head or picking up a glass. It signals that you’re in control and unhurried.
3️⃣ Keep Your Chin Parallel
A slightly raised chin indicates confidence and openness, but don’t overdo it (which can look arrogant). Keeping it parallel shows you’re alert and self-assured.
4️⃣ Maintain Strong, Relaxed Eye Contact
Holding calm eye contact (without staring aggressively) conveys dominance and self-assurance. Looking away too often suggests submissiveness or anxiety.
5️⃣ Use Controlled Facial Expressions
Powerful people don’t overreact. A composed face during stressful moments signals emotional strength. Master a slight, knowing smile instead of a nervous grin.
6️⃣ Plant Your Feet Firmly
Avoid shifting weight excessively or fidgeting with your legs. Standing with feet shoulder-width apart and grounded shows stability and confidence.
7️⃣ Show Your Palms Strategically
Revealing your palms when gesturing signals honesty and openness. But avoid fidgeting with your hands or hiding them, which suggests insecurity.
8️⃣ Lean In Slightly When Engaged
A slight forward lean while listening shows interest and engagement — but too much can appear needy. Powerful people balance openness with self-contained composure.
9️⃣ Keep Your Hands Visible
Hiding hands in pockets or behind your back can be read as uncertainty. Rest them on the table or keep them by your sides naturally.
🔟 Nod Sparingly
Excessive nodding indicates eagerness to please. Use slow, controlled nods to show understanding — not to seek approval.
1️⃣1️⃣ Avoid Touching Your Face
Frequent face touching is a universal sign of nervousness. Reducing this habit instantly makes you look more collected and powerful.
1️⃣2️⃣ Use Pauses in Speech
Pausing strategically shows you're comfortable with silence and not rushing to fill it. This subtle vocal cue reinforces your physical power signals.
Bonus: Feel It First
Studies show that "power posing" doesn’t just change how others see you — it actually influences your own hormones, increasing testosterone and decreasing cortisol (Carney, Cuddy, & Yap, 2010).
In other words: Fake it until you become it.
💬 Share this with someone who needs a quick boost in presence — you might help them walk into a room like they own it. 😉
References & Sources
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Mehrabian, A. (1971). Silent Messages. Wadsworth.
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Carney, D. R., Cuddy, A. J. C., & Yap, A. J. (2010). "Power posing: Brief nonverbal displays affect neuroendocrine levels and risk tolerance." Psychological Science, 21(10), 1363–1368.
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Goman, C. K. (2008). The Nonverbal Advantage: Secrets and Science of Body Language at Work. Berrett-Koehler.