Donald Trump appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman about three weeks ago. Throughout much of the interview (in above video), Trump's default hand position was a "Conventional Low Steeple" (pictured below). This hand configuration should be used very sparingly - just for a second or two - and essentially choreographed into the speech or conversation at moments of particularly important points. In such cases it projects power, assertiveness and an alpha personality. However most people who use this body language end up over-using it and thus it sends signals of arrogance and condescension. So when it's used excessively or even moderately this nonverbal backfires and is patronizing - and is also highly correlated with narcissistic personality disorder.
If you're a CEO, billionaire or leader of any kind, projecting arrogance and hyper-alpha attitudes do not work in your favor. Everyone know you can fire them, buy them or intimidate them - thus adopting body language of rapport rather than one which builds walls will get you to your goal more effectively.
See also:
Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1503: The Conventional Steeple vs. The Basketball Steeple - Seeking a Balance
Negotiation Body Language Secret # 901: The Over-used Steeple - Angela Merkel and the Backfire in Berlin
Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2063: Mitt Romney and Ed Miliband - Under Used and Backfiring Uses of Hands
Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2102: The Self-Righteous Head Wiggle and the Conventional Steeple vs.Basketball Steeple
Negotiation Secret # 277: The Conventional Steeple: Use it on Rare Occasions and in Small Doses
Negotiation Body Language Secret # 771: Many Signals Steeple on the Super Committee
Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1811: Jamie Dimon - the Day Before Announcement of JPMorgan Chase's $2 Billion Loss
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