Body Language Greetings 2

Question 1

When someone offers a handshake with their palm facing downward, what dominance signal are they sending?

Accepted Answer

Dominance and control

Answer

A palm-down handshake is a classic dominance gesture, as it forces the other person's hand into a submissive upward position.

Question 2

What does it typically signal when someone leans their entire body forward during a greeting?

Accepted Answer

Enthusiasm and engagement

Answer

Leaning forward during a greeting indicates enthusiasm, openness, and a desire to engage more closely with the other person.

Question 3

In American professional settings, how long should a standard greeting handshake last?

Accepted Answer

Two to five pumps or about two to three seconds

Answer

A professional handshake in the US typically lasts two to five pumps or roughly two to three seconds before releasing.

Question 4

What body language cue typically accompanies a genuine smile during a greeting versus a polite but insincere one?

Accepted Answer

Crow's feet wrinkles around the eyes

Answer

A genuine Duchenne smile engages the orbicularis oculi muscle, creating wrinkles (crow's feet) around the eyes that are hard to fake.

Question 5

When someone greets you but keeps their arms crossed throughout the introduction, what is the most likely interpretation?

Accepted Answer

They are defensive, closed off, or uncomfortable

Answer

Crossed arms during a greeting create a physical barrier that typically signals defensiveness, discomfort, or emotional withdrawal.

Body Language Practice Test