Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2043: Foot Position at a Funeral/Receiving of Remains Ceremony - Respect vs. Disrespect

The ceremony for the receiving of the remains of a soldier, while not a funeral, commands the same level of respect and reverence. In most scenarios, standing with one's feet together connotes a demure, beta, low confidence or low comfort emotional tone - but not so when in paying our respects to the deceased. Note that the two servicemen closest to the camera have their feet together, as does the person standing behind the casket (only feet and top of head visible). Certainly military protocol varies from country to country, however the "feet together and parallel" position is a universal body language sign of respect - military or civilian. The remaining serviceman (furthest in the row) is standing with his feet apart, positioned obliquely, in a more relaxed configuration - and thus in this setting he's sending nonverbal signals of aloofness, non-engagement and disrespect.

See also:

Analysis # 1843: United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice in Response to the Syrian Government's Houla Massacre

Analysis # 719: When to Stand with Your Feet Together

Analysis # 919: How Newt Stands Influences Voters

Analysis # 1867: Ann Romney - Demure vs. Assertive Stance

Analysis # 14: High and Low Confidence Drivers: Arms Akimbo and Assertive Attitudes


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Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1737: Building Bridges or WallsThe Human Touch

A protester attempts to talk to a soldier guarding the Egyptian Defense Ministry in Cairo. It is a natural inclination to touch another when we are passionate on any issue - even if they're a stranger. While there are certainly times when touching another would be too much, send the wrong message and backfire - this is not one of them. It's a body language nuance to which few pay much attention or attempt to refine. Yet the few seconds when we touch someone, if done sincerely and in context, generates an extremely disproportionate amount of influence and rapport.

The Election for a new Egyptian President is expected to be held in July 2012.

See also:

Analysis # 1600: Senator Marco Rubio - Self-directed Incredulity & Humor, Blocking and Appeals for the Vice Presidency

Secret # 2: Hugs as a Measure of Affection or Impending Break-up

Secret # 703: Bad Handshake - Let Me Count the Ways

Secret # 771: Ann's and Mitt's Affectionate Hug

Secret # 483: Handshake on the 18th - Not so Fast


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