Body Language Arts

In each face to face human interaction there is an observable energy transmitted via body language and non-verbal cues. More and more I find myself getting "real" content by reading between the lines on peoples foreheads. Interpersonal communications experts confirm that body language is responsible for roughly 80% of what we communicate.

Will this new information help us pick our next President? Can the way a candidate speaks, change our attitudes more than What he/she actually speaks about? Some might argue that they make their political choices based solely on issues and facts rather than personality, or general demeanor. In a Nation focused on the "looks" of runway models, super heroes and celebrity glamour, it's hard to imagine anyone as completely immune to the powers of a candidate's public speaking skills and basic like-ability. So what does this mean for Barrack and John?

I have been reviewing video of each candidate some times without volume to access what they are saying sans words. McCain seems to hold a commanding presence during his speeches, with plenty of podium hitting. His brow furrows in an aggressive expression frequently, and he has a token micro-squint that he breaks out at tough moments. During verbal pauses, he blinks in rapid succession while simultaneously creating a "semi-forced" toothy grin. Face coding experts say blinking can equal lying. While answering questions he often wanders around the podium a bit. Perhaps this is an effort to literally get "closer" to the audience, showing that he is a straight talker.

As I reviewed video clips of Obama, I noticed a look of quiet self confidence (though some might see it as a look of quiet self righteousness). He lifts his chin just slightly, while giving a barely discernable half squint. Is he looking into the future? During loud applauses from raucous crowds, he lifts his hand, controlling the commotion with calm body-leadership. Obama does not move around the stage much, mostly staying grounded behind the podium. His brow can furrow during serous moments but more often it is neutral and relaxed, showing that there is hope.

Take a look at the candidates, no really. Turn the volume down low on the TV and just take a look at there body language. There body language speaks so loudly that you don't even need to hear the words. Read between the lines in their foreheads.