7 Unusual Body Language Signals in the Workplace You've Probably Missed

When most of us think of body language at work, we picture the classics, crossed arms, avoiding eye contact, leaning back in a chair. But according to Allan and Barbara Pease’s bestselling The Definitive Book of Body Language, there are many subtle, often-overlooked gestures that can reveal what colleagues, clients, and even your boss are really thinking. 

Below, we explore seven of the most unusual body language cues you might spot in the workplace, and how to interpret them. 

1. The Thumb Display: The Hidden Power Pose  

When someone hooks their thumbs into their waistband, belt, or pockets with fingers pointing down, they’re often signalling confidence and dominance, even if they’re standing casually. In a boardroom, this can be a silent statement of control. If a senior manager stands this way during a discussion, they may be positioning themselves as the decision-maker without saying a word. 

Tip: Use this subtly in presentations to project confidence without looking aggressive. 

2. The Steeple Gesture: The “I’ve Got This” Signal 

Fingers touching at the tips with palms apart — the “steeple” — is a strong confidence indicator. What’s unusual is that overusing it can backfire. A colleague who “steeples” excessively during meetings may be seen as arrogant, even if they don’t mean to be. 

Tip: Use this sparingly when you want to emphasise expertise, such as when delivering a solution. 

3. The Ankle Lock: Silent Discomfort  

Crossing legs at the ankles, especially when seated, is often a subconscious sign of self-restraint or discomfort. You might spot this in job interviews or tense negotiations when someone is holding back a reaction or opinion. 

Tip: If you notice this in a client, shift the conversation to a safer topic before returning to sensitive points. 

4. The collar Pull: The Heat of the Moment  

Touching or tugging at the collar can signal stress or discomfort, not necessarily from the temperature. In office politics, it may appear when someone is caught in a tricky question or stretching the truth. 

Tip: If you see this, give the person space to regroup, pressing them could escalate tension. 

5. Foot Pointing: The Direction of Interest  

People often point their feet toward what they truly want, or who they want to leave toward. In meetings, someone with their feet angled toward the door might be mentally checked out, even if they’re nodding along. 

Tip: Adjust the conversation or format to re-engage them. 

6. The Eyebrow Flash: A Split-Second Hello  

A quick upward flick of the eyebrows is a universal sign of recognition or interest.  In workplace networking, this can happen across a crowded room and signal openness to conversation. 

Tip: Pair your own eyebrow flash with a smile to build instant rapport. 

7. The “Holding Yourself” Gesture: Self-Comfort in Stress  

Crossing arms while gripping the upper arms or elbows is more than defensive, it’s a self-soothing action. You might see this in performance reviews or when someone is under scrutiny. 

Tip: Recognise it as a need for reassurance, not just a closed attitude.

Why These Signals Matter in the Workplace  

The workplace isn’t just about what’s said, it’s about what’s shown.  Spotting unusual body language cues helps you: 

• Read hidden emotions in colleagues and clients 

• Adjust your approach in high-stakes conversations 

• Build stronger relationships by responding to unspoken needs 

  
  

By paying attention to these subtle gestures, you gain an advantage in communication that most people overlook.