Body Language: The Fine Line Between Authentic Leadership and the Illusion of Power

Conscious leaders know that communication is more than just words (because let’s face it, political debates often commit to nothing). What truly speaks volumes is body language. By observing the non-verbal cues of US presidential nominees during the debate, we can learn a lot about who we’d want to follow—or even emulate as leaders.

Body language cues from each candidate offer insights into their leadership style. These observations hold lessons for Conscious Leaders aiming to inspire, influence, and drive action.

Let’s break it down:

• Donald Trump’s Boldy Language and What It Reveals
• VP Kamal Harris’ Body Language and What It Reveals
• Leader or Liar
• Make Your Contribution Count Now-Next Steps

Donald Trump’s Body language and what it reveals

1. The Power Pose Perch – Standing wide, elbows out, and chest puffed up like he owns the room (or maybe the world).
   Lesson for leaders: Confidence is key, but overdoing it can create barriers instead of connections. Strike a balance between presence and approachability.
2. The Pinch-and-Point Parade – His go-to thumb-to-index-finger gesture, often evolving into a point.
   Lesson for leaders: Precision in body language can reinforce authority, but be mindful not to overuse assertive gestures—they can become abrasive.
3. The Leaning Tower of Trump – Forward-leaning into the mic, his way of hammering a point home—subtlety, not included.
   Lesson for leaders: Leaning in can emphasize a point, but leaders must also lean back and listen to foster collaboration and inclusion.
4. The Shrug of Shrugs – A quick raise of the shoulders when cornered, as if to say, “What can I tell ya?”
   Lesson for leaders: Shrugging off challenges sends the wrong message—leaders should own their positions and decisions with confidence.
5. The Chopping Block Chop – A swift, downward hand chop used to slice through conversation or cut off an opponent.
   Lesson for leaders: Sharp gestures can create a sense of urgency or finality, but overuse can make you appear dismissive or aggressive, shutting down meaningful dialogue.

VP Kamal Harris’ Body language and what it reveals

1. The Raised Eyebrow Remix – One eyebrow slightly up, a hint of skepticism—reading the room with a side of sass.
   Lesson for leaders: A well-timed raised eyebrow can communicate awareness and understanding. Use it sparingly to avoid seeming overly critical.
2. The Tilt-and-Talk Tactic – Tilting her head while speaking, signaling empathy and understanding, drawing you in without even saying, “I hear you.”
   Lesson for leaders: A tilted head shows empathy and openness, helping leaders connect on a human level. Women, watch using too much, as it also can look like asking for permission. And you don’t need it!
3. The Smile-and-Slice – That warm smile with a sharp comeback—disarming and decisive all at once.
   Lesson for leaders: Smiling while delivering hard truths can soften the blow and make the message more palatable—an invaluable skill for conscious leadership.
4. The Pause-and-Penetrate – A well-timed pause before locking eyes with the camera ensures every word lands with impact.
   Lesson for leaders: Pausing before responding demonstrates that you’re listening, while eye contact builds trust and underscores the importance of your words. This one is definitely a keeper!
5. The Circle of Clarity – A deliberate circular motion with both hands near the chest as if to gather and release thoughts with precision.
   Lesson for leaders: This gesture projects calmness and control, helping to clarify complex ideas. Don’t overuse it, because it can become distracting and produce the opposite effect.
6. The Unreturned Gaze – Kamala’s steady, direct look at her opponent, even as he avoids eye contact and never says her name! (We all know why he doesn’t say her name, right? He can’t)
   Lesson for leaders: Eye contact is a powerful tool for asserting presence and confidence. Ignoring or avoiding it can come across as evasive or dismissive, undermining trust and connection.

Leader or Liar? Decoding the Body Language Behind the Illusion of Power

Authenticity—that’s what we’re all looking for in a leader, isn’t it? The kind of person who not only speaks with conviction but shows it in how they carry themselves. Let’s cut to the chase: body language speaks louder than words, especially on a debate stage. But when you watch Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, does their body language scream leader or liar?

Let’s start with Trump. There’s no doubt he’s mastered the art of projecting confidence—his power poses and assertive gestures are meant to dominate the room. But let’s dig deeper. The over-the-top wide stance, elbows out, and that infamous chopping hand motion? It’s almost as if he’s carving out his space, ensuring no one gets too close, physically or figuratively. It’s a classic display of control, but it can come off as more self-protection than self-assurance.

And then there’s the shrug—ah, the famous Trump shrug, signaling, “What can I tell ya?” It’s dismissive and evasive, almost like he’s shrugging off responsibility. So, does Trump’s body language scream ‘leader’? Sure, if your definition of leadership is rooted in domination. But when you see those evasive shrugs and defensive postures, it begs the question—what’s he really avoiding? Leader or liar? It’s a toss-up. Disclaimer: This blog just refers to body language.

Now, let’s talk about Kamala Harris. There’s a subtlety to her that contrasts sharply with Trump’s in-your-face style. The raised eyebrow, the smile that slices through a conversation, and, of course, the direct, unwavering eye contact. Harris’s body language communicates empathy and intelligence—her head tilts and draws you in, signaling understanding. But the real power is in her pauses. She’ll stop, look you dead in the eye, and let her words land with precision. But here’s where we need to watch closely—does her calm demeanor (after 10 minutes into the debate) and controlled gestures make her seem too polished? When she locks eyes with someone who never acknowledges her (ahem, Trump), is she maintaining her authority, or is she performing for the audience? She exudes leadership, yes—but is there a hint of calculation behind those measured movements? Perhaps.

Ultimately, both candidates use their body language to assert their version of leadership. But here’s the real question: do they mean what they say, or are they just playing the game? Leader or liar, authentic or illusion of power—it’s all in the eye of the beholder.

Make Your Contribution Count Now

As a Conscious Leader, your words may set the tone, but your body language reinforces your authenticity. Whether you’re addressing your team or an audience, remember that how you carry yourself can either inspire trust or raise doubts. Stand tall, but stay open. Use your gestures to emphasize your passion, but make sure they’re aligned with the message you want to convey. Authenticity comes from within, but your body needs to show it, too.

By paying attention to your own non-verbal cues, you not only connect more deeply with those around you, but you also inspire them to take action. When your body language is intentional and aligned with your purpose, you lead with confidence and clarity—making your contribution count in a way that resonates and drives impact. So, next time you step into a room, ask yourself—what is my body saying, and is it authentically leading others to where I want them to go?

Let’s make Waves!

🌊 I’m Suzanne F. Stevens, your Wave-Maker at the YouMeWe Social Impact Group, empowering a WE Culture by cultivating conscious leadership.

I amplify the voices and impact of sheIMPACTLeaders through coaching, training, speaking, and our podcast. Elevate your leadership, amplify your authentic voice, and accelerate sustainable social change with YouMeWe. 

Amplify Your Authentic Voice: Present Purposefully & Persuasively.   
Master the Art of Presenting with Authenticity, Purpose, and Persuasion to Inspire Change and Amplify Social Impact—Backed by Proven Global Strategies in a Hybrid Learning Experience.

Receive 25% savings on the launch price. Save here.