Nonverbal Communication Analysis #2184: President Obama - "I'm Open to Compromise ..." But What Does His Body Language Say?

As the "Fiscal Cliff" approaches, President Obama gave his first post-election speech today in the East Room of the White House in which he spoke of the budget, taxes, deficit reduction - AND his strong desire to bring both parties together and arrive at a solution that has so far proven elusive. But was he sincere?  In the CNN video above President Obama says, ".... I want to be clear; I'm not wedded to every detail of my plan. I'm open to compromise. I'm open to new ideas ... (1:41 - 1:50)." Note specifically during the 1:48 - 1:50 segment, Mr. Obama's hands gesture widely (shoulders width apart) together with an up-and-down motion - in one example of what in body language nomenclature is known as an "Illustrator". Moreover it signals openness. This particular nonverbal is highly congruent with his spoken words - and thus is a strong indicator of the President's high sincerity quotient in this message. If at this particular juncture his hands were held close together - or if they were closed in fist-like configurations, one would have to doubt his word. The President's body language is highly consistent with his verbal message. He is being honest.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1915: Mitt Romney's Response to Supreme Court's Decision on "Obamacare"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2046:  Romney, Sincerity, Truth and Bain Capital

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2150:  Body Language Advice for  President Obama and Governor Romney in Tonight's Debate

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2078:  Mitt Romney's Taxes and Harry Reid's Accusations

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