Our face can generate up to 7,000 different facial expressions, acting as a repository for ‘hidden’ nonverbal communication. We send signals through our facial features. However, verbal and nonverbal communication don’t always align, leading to uncertainty and friction. Learning to interpret facial expressions can enhance the effectiveness of our communication. The four behavioral dimensions are identifiable through characteristic facial features. We illustrate how to identify dominant and steady behavioral tendencies in the others face.
Prof. Dr. John G. Geier, the developer of the persolog® Personality Factor Profile, has explored facial features and their connection to the four behavioral tendencies. His research indicates that people read faces, attributing emotions to facial expressions and judging others. However, our tools aren’t always correct. By learning to recognize the four behavioral dimensions in faces, we can gain a better understanding of others. For individuals exhibiting the behavioral tendencies of “Dominance” and “Steadiness,” certain facial expressions are typical:
l Dominance
Dominant individuals typically like to take charge, tend to control others, and are highly competitive, striving to remove obstacles.
These basic tendencies are accentuated by their typical facial features. Vertical furrows between the eyebrows and pressed-together, closed lips are typical. Dominant behavior often manifests through raised eyebrows or intense eye contact.
l Steadiness
Individuals with the behavioral tendency of “Steadiness” endeavor to flatter others, hoping for praise. Additionally, they anticipate difficulties in advance, often believing that resistance is futile.
Characteristic of steady individuals are slight, horizontal lines on the forehead. The inner corners of the eyes are raised, indicating attention, while the eyebrows remain still. Furthermore, smiling to concerned eyes further emphasizes the steady behavior, along with slightly pressed lips and drawn mouth corners.
All four behavioral dimensions exhibit significant correlations with specific facial features. Geier’s research suggests a cross-cultural validity of the expressed behavioral patterns.
Understanding facial expressions is beneficial in various situations and interactions. Whether it’s in sales or job interviews, unconscious signals from conversation partners are crucial for comprehension. Therefore, observe your counterpart’s facial expressions alongside verbal communications. How do they express themselves? What behavioral tendencies are evident in their facial expressions? Notice, for example, horizontal or vertical forehead wrinkles. This approach allows you to form a more objective impression of your counterpart, adapt your behavior accordingly, and facilitate smooth communication.
All Weirdos Except Me
Learn to understand yourself and others better. In this webinar with Debora Karsch, you will learn to better assess the behavior of other people. You will learn how to use this knowledge and thus improve your relationships.
