The Science of Power Posing

Nov 27, 2024

Lecture on Nonverbal Communication and Power Posing by Shalini Sharma

Introduction

  • Life Hack Introduction: Simple changes in posture for two minutes can impact life outcomes.
  • Body Language Audit: Observing how we make ourselves smaller or bigger.

Body Language and Nonverbals

  • Fascination with Body Language: Interest in others' body language and its implications.
  • Nonverbals as Communication: How body language communicates to others and ourselves.
  • Impact of Nonverbals: Can predict life outcomes such as hiring and dating.

Research on Body Language

  • Judgments from Body Language:
    • Physician-patient interactions can predict lawsuits based on nonverbal cues.
    • Quick judgments on political candidates can predict election outcomes.
  • Power Dynamics and Nonverbals:
    • Expression of power and dominance involves making oneself bigger.
    • Universal expression of pride observed even in congenitally blind individuals.

Power Posing

  • Concept of Power Posing: Expanding body posture to feel and project power.
  • Biological Impact:
    • High-power poses increase testosterone and decrease cortisol.
    • Low-power poses have the opposite effect.

Experiment on Power Posing

  • Experiment Setup: Participants adopt high or low-power poses.
  • Findings:
    • High-power posers exhibit increased risk tolerance.
    • Hormonal changes observed after two minutes of posing.

Application of Power Posing

  • Practical Use: Ideal before interviews or evaluative situations.
  • Misunderstandings: Not to be used during interactions but as a preparation.
  • Behavioral Outcomes: Increased confidence and assertiveness.

Real-life Applications and Stories

  • Personal Story:
    • Overcoming feelings of being an imposter after an accident.
    • "Fake it till you become it" narrative.
  • Influence on Students:
    • Encouraged a student who felt like an imposter to use power posing.

Conclusion

  • Power Posing Benefits: Tiny tweaks in posture can lead to significant changes.
  • Call to Action: Share the science of power posing, especially with those who lack resources.
  • Final Encouragement: Use power posing to present your true self authentically.

Note: This summary captures the essence and key points discussed by Shalini Sharma on the impact of body language and power posing in various life situations.