Pressing the fingertips of both hands together to form a shape like the roof of a building.
An expert listens to a question, then forms a steeple with the fingers before answering calmly. The gesture seems to gather composure, framing the reply with quiet assurance.
Steepling commonly signals confidence, composure and a sense of authority over the subject at hand. It often appears at the moment a person feels most sure of their ground.
Held too long it can read as arrogance, so consider how it lands with the rest of the room. The same gesture that signals command can also create distance if it seems to talk down to others.
Hand movements that accompany speech and paint the shape, size or rhythm of what is being said.
ExploreGestures with a fixed meaning that can stand in for words, such as a thumbs up or a beckoning hand.
ExploreSmall self-touching movements such as rubbing the hands or stroking the arm that help to soothe nerves.
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