Politicians' public-friendly stunts
Does it impact their governing?
By JOANNE RICHARD, Special to QMI Agency
Last Updated: August 6, 2010 10:00pm
Email StoryPrintSize A A AReport TypoShare with:
FacebookDiggDel.icio.usGoogleStumble UponNewsvineRedditTechnoratiFeed MeYahooSimpySquidooSpurlBlogmarksNetvouzScuttleSitejot+ What are these? .
Federal Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff and his tour bus made a stop at MuchMusic in Toronto. (Michael Peake/QMI Agency) From singalongs to festival jigs, politicians are croonin’ and movin’ to the political beat.
Iggy got jiggy at MuchMusic recently. Federal Liberal party leader Michael Ignatieff staged a conga line and danced several feet onto his tour bus in downtown Toronto.
Remember Stephen Harper’s attempted singalong at the National Arts Centre Gala last year? And just last week President Obama made a sit-down appearance on The View, marking the first-ever appearance by a president on a daytime talk show.
According to Patti Wood, these politicians are working hard at increasing their likability factor in order to appear more approachable and connected. “Showing their soft, fluffy, likable side is a way of getting more media coverage.
“It’s a shift from gravitas to gregarious!” adds Wood, body language expert and author of Success Signals. “Politicians seem reconciled that it is difficult, if not impossible, to be credible to gain our trust and respect, so they are singing, dancing, and cracking jokes on talk shows in a bid for media attention that gives them popularity. They are using their charisma to at least be likable.”
Dr. Lillian Glass agrees. “Politicians are so vilified that they’re trying to make themselves appear more human and likable – they’re just building up their image points and leave a better impression for when the mud and dirt start to fling.”
Glass, a body language/communications expert, adds that although their songs and dances are superficial, they will impact how some people vote.
Author Sanjay Burman says that “seeing politicians who can’t dance but shed their insecurities to go out and have fun, makes us see a personable side to them.
“Stephen Harper shaking hands with his youngest son on the first day of school showed us he is just as stiff as we thought.”
And his singing stint was off-key in the warmth department too.
Burman, of burmanbooks.com, says that we love Obama as a person “because he shows us that he is the same as we are. He is intelligent, successful, loving, genuine and fun. He plays basketball, jokes during interviews and always has his family around.
“I have a problem trusting Ignatieff,” adds Burman, a master hypnotherapist and author of "Reading People and Do Everything They Tell You Not To Do."
“His eyebrows are always covering his face. He keeps his distance when shaking hands with people and even when he smiles he keeps a stern look.”
According to Hogan, song and dance are all for show. “They are trying to achieve their 51% and they know that people filter by identity prior to political views. It simply makes good sense to literally touch as many humans as possible. Those people you touch that you can identify, you are much, much more likely to vote for at the polls.”
When it comes to appealing to certain demographics, politicians know exactly where to aim.
Obama is losing support in the unemployed and also the upper income groups, says Hogan. "He's trying to get back "in" with the lower income America by hitting The View. It's a smart strategy on his part - it isn’t going to help a whole lot but it's probably better than not doing the gig!"
Looks count
Superficial, non-verbal cues, such as politicians’ appearance, greatly sway voting choices. Voters make judgments about politicians’ competence based on their facial appearance.
-June 2010 issue of the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior
“Attractive candidates get more news coverage than less attractive ones, reports Patti Wood, body language expert. “And it’s more important for a female politician to be attractive if she wants to get media coverage.”
The bottom line: People generally want to be with good looking people – they even value them as being more worthy.
http://www.calgarysun.com/life/2010/08/05/14930736.html
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
What Your Desk Says About Your Personality
What your desk says about you. ....A body language experts read.
Joanne Richard, Sun Media
Well, you can kiss that promotion goodbye -- thanks to that tacky Trailer Park Boys calendar hanging front and centre in your workspace.
Call it career death by décor.
"Put up a suggestive or tasteless calendar and you're looking to be fired. You're a risk-taker who wants to be seen as on the edge -- and you could find yourself pushed off!" says Patti Wood, an Atlanta communications and behaviour expert.
According to Wood, personal items displayed at work convey messages and, like it or not, judgments are made about you based on your taste -- or lack of.
Objects speak loud and clear, says Wood, and often provide clues to an employee's personality and level of commitment.
Toronto image and communications specialist, Roz Usheroff, says workplace accessories "define who you are; they're an extension of your image. Conveying a sense of professionalism is of the utmost importance -- that's if you want to be taken seriously."
She recommends accessorizing with a few "items that define you, like a hobby such as golf or fishing, that allows for small talk and a point of reference -- nothing inappropriate or overdone. You need to show a sense of humour, approachability and warmth."
Adeodata Czink doesn't agree. "Why do you need props? Are you not there to work?" asks Czink, a Toronto etiquette expert and president of Business of Manners.
Check out your workplace style and what it says about you, according to our experts:
Messy! Cluttered but creative, says Usheroff, of The Usheroff Institute in Toronto. "These people can be very innovative types."
According to Wood, a pristine work area may indicate a less approachable type who considers work to be work -- forget the socializing. And don't ask questions; their personal life is just that -- personal. They work well, effectively, efficiently and may have aspirations to move up the corporate ladder. Colleagues socializing and taking personal calls on company time easily annoy them.
Wood also adds that an absence of personal items altogether may indicate lack of permanency -- less to pack when it's time to move on. They may also be secretive; "it could reveal they were fired in past jobs and they don't trust they'll be there long."
Get stuffed. If cutesy figurines, kids' artwork, and a few cuddly stuffed bears adorn the work area, this indicates a warm and fuzzy kind of person who has no problem showing their emotions; self-disclosure comes easily, says Wood. Spending time with friends and family rates high on their priority list.
It's a bird! Superhero action figures or calendar, and goofy, techie toys reveal a good problem solver who's a big kid inside. "They're more left-brain oriented and love to show how smart they are -- if you're in the market for a new TV, computer or camcorder, be sure to seek out their advice," says Wood.
I've got kids! Family photos in very obvious places -- especially at the right of your computer screen -- reveal that family and relationships matter. "It's what make this person happy and it's the most important thing to them," says Wood.
Not necessarily so, adds Czink: "Lots of men put a family picture on their desk or in the room at the window so that others should see what a committed family man he is. I carry my children's picture in my soul, and don't need to have them on my desk."
Sitting pretty. What do you see first -- their back or their face? Sitting with your back to the door indicates you're there to work and don't appreciate interruptions; facing or sitting sideways to the door is a sign of welcome, adds Wood.
"Never close your door," warns Usheroff. "Psychologically, you're putting a wall up; you're signalling you're not approachable."
http://lifewise.canoe.ca/Work/2005/03/16/962849.html
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
Joanne Richard, Sun Media
Well, you can kiss that promotion goodbye -- thanks to that tacky Trailer Park Boys calendar hanging front and centre in your workspace.
Call it career death by décor.
"Put up a suggestive or tasteless calendar and you're looking to be fired. You're a risk-taker who wants to be seen as on the edge -- and you could find yourself pushed off!" says Patti Wood, an Atlanta communications and behaviour expert.
According to Wood, personal items displayed at work convey messages and, like it or not, judgments are made about you based on your taste -- or lack of.
Objects speak loud and clear, says Wood, and often provide clues to an employee's personality and level of commitment.
Toronto image and communications specialist, Roz Usheroff, says workplace accessories "define who you are; they're an extension of your image. Conveying a sense of professionalism is of the utmost importance -- that's if you want to be taken seriously."
She recommends accessorizing with a few "items that define you, like a hobby such as golf or fishing, that allows for small talk and a point of reference -- nothing inappropriate or overdone. You need to show a sense of humour, approachability and warmth."
Adeodata Czink doesn't agree. "Why do you need props? Are you not there to work?" asks Czink, a Toronto etiquette expert and president of Business of Manners.
Check out your workplace style and what it says about you, according to our experts:
Messy! Cluttered but creative, says Usheroff, of The Usheroff Institute in Toronto. "These people can be very innovative types."
According to Wood, a pristine work area may indicate a less approachable type who considers work to be work -- forget the socializing. And don't ask questions; their personal life is just that -- personal. They work well, effectively, efficiently and may have aspirations to move up the corporate ladder. Colleagues socializing and taking personal calls on company time easily annoy them.
Wood also adds that an absence of personal items altogether may indicate lack of permanency -- less to pack when it's time to move on. They may also be secretive; "it could reveal they were fired in past jobs and they don't trust they'll be there long."
Get stuffed. If cutesy figurines, kids' artwork, and a few cuddly stuffed bears adorn the work area, this indicates a warm and fuzzy kind of person who has no problem showing their emotions; self-disclosure comes easily, says Wood. Spending time with friends and family rates high on their priority list.
It's a bird! Superhero action figures or calendar, and goofy, techie toys reveal a good problem solver who's a big kid inside. "They're more left-brain oriented and love to show how smart they are -- if you're in the market for a new TV, computer or camcorder, be sure to seek out their advice," says Wood.
I've got kids! Family photos in very obvious places -- especially at the right of your computer screen -- reveal that family and relationships matter. "It's what make this person happy and it's the most important thing to them," says Wood.
Not necessarily so, adds Czink: "Lots of men put a family picture on their desk or in the room at the window so that others should see what a committed family man he is. I carry my children's picture in my soul, and don't need to have them on my desk."
Sitting pretty. What do you see first -- their back or their face? Sitting with your back to the door indicates you're there to work and don't appreciate interruptions; facing or sitting sideways to the door is a sign of welcome, adds Wood.
"Never close your door," warns Usheroff. "Psychologically, you're putting a wall up; you're signalling you're not approachable."
http://lifewise.canoe.ca/Work/2005/03/16/962849.html
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
The Benefits of Touch
In an article for Lending Success, Patti Wood, motivational speaker and communication trainer, discusses the benefits of touch and what is "safe touch" in the workplace. Check the link for her informative insights.http://www.scribd.com/doc/34851978/Lending-Success-Can'tTouchThis
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://pattiwood.net/. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
Hewlett-Packard Says CEO, Mark Hurd, Is Stepping Down Following A Sexual-Harassment Investigation
Years ago, when I was working on my doctorate, I gave my first paid speech on body language and gender differences. I realized that with all the women entering the workforce in equal positions with men there would be more sexual-harassment problems and began doing research on what would be my initial doctoral dissertation topic, "Romantic Relationships In The Work Place." I also started getting requests to do communication programs on preventing sexual-harassment issues.
When I see news items about sexual-harassment, I read them with great interest. Here is a story that I wish I had some video on to analyze the body language.
HP’s CEO Hurd quits after sexual-harassment probe
Executive filed false expense reports to cover up
HP CEO steps down. Justin Sullivan
Hewlett-Packard says CEO Mark Hurd is stepping down following a sexual-harassment probe.msnbc.com news services
updated 4 minutes ago
Share Print Font: +-PALO ALTO, Calif. — Hewlett-Packard Co. Chairman and CEO Mark Hurd has resigned after a sexual-harassment probe that found he violated company standards, the computer maker said Friday.
The investigation found that although there was no violation of HP's sexual harassment policy Hurd, 53, filed erroneous expense reports to cover up his "close personal relationship" with a marketing consultant hired by his office, HP general counsel Michael Holston said.
The investigation also found there were "numerous instances where the contractor received compensation and/or expense reimbursement where there was not a legitimate business purpose," Holston said in a conference call with analysts. He said the behavior reflected a "profound lack of judgment."
As a result Hurd, who is married, has stepped down from all his positions at the company, effective immediately, according to a news release issued after the stock market closed Friday.
"As the investigation progressed, I realized there were instances in which I did not live up to the standards and principles of trust, respect and integrity that I have espoused at HP and which have guided me throughout my career," Hurd said in a statement.
"This is a painful decision for me to make after five years at HP, but I believe it would be difficult for me to continue as an effective leader at HP and I believe this is the only decision the board and I could make at this time," he said.
Hurd and Robert Ryan, HP's lead independent board member, stressed that Hurd's departure has nothing to do with the company's financial health.
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
When I see news items about sexual-harassment, I read them with great interest. Here is a story that I wish I had some video on to analyze the body language.
HP’s CEO Hurd quits after sexual-harassment probe
Executive filed false expense reports to cover up
HP CEO steps down. Justin Sullivan
Hewlett-Packard says CEO Mark Hurd is stepping down following a sexual-harassment probe.msnbc.com news services
updated 4 minutes ago
Share Print Font: +-PALO ALTO, Calif. — Hewlett-Packard Co. Chairman and CEO Mark Hurd has resigned after a sexual-harassment probe that found he violated company standards, the computer maker said Friday.
The investigation found that although there was no violation of HP's sexual harassment policy Hurd, 53, filed erroneous expense reports to cover up his "close personal relationship" with a marketing consultant hired by his office, HP general counsel Michael Holston said.
The investigation also found there were "numerous instances where the contractor received compensation and/or expense reimbursement where there was not a legitimate business purpose," Holston said in a conference call with analysts. He said the behavior reflected a "profound lack of judgment."
As a result Hurd, who is married, has stepped down from all his positions at the company, effective immediately, according to a news release issued after the stock market closed Friday.
"As the investigation progressed, I realized there were instances in which I did not live up to the standards and principles of trust, respect and integrity that I have espoused at HP and which have guided me throughout my career," Hurd said in a statement.
"This is a painful decision for me to make after five years at HP, but I believe it would be difficult for me to continue as an effective leader at HP and I believe this is the only decision the board and I could make at this time," he said.
Hurd and Robert Ryan, HP's lead independent board member, stressed that Hurd's departure has nothing to do with the company's financial health.
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
Gaze And Flirting
Quote in Mens Health
"Lost in her gaze "
If you find locking eyes with her a struggle, it might just be that you're feeling dominated, anxious or shy. When you do, you "look away as an attempt to regain control, disengage and limit how much information you take in," says John Dovidio, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Yale University. So the next time you two are alone, first make a conscious effort to rein in your addled emotions. If you're still struggling, take the advice of body language expert, Patti Wood, M.A., and split your attention among her mouth, eyes and cheek." This makes wondering eyes less obvious. And don't stop trying: University of Colorado researchers found that meeting her gaze makes you seem powerful.
Labels: Relationships
http://www.mens-health.com.my/2009_03_01_archive.html
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
"Lost in her gaze "
If you find locking eyes with her a struggle, it might just be that you're feeling dominated, anxious or shy. When you do, you "look away as an attempt to regain control, disengage and limit how much information you take in," says John Dovidio, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Yale University. So the next time you two are alone, first make a conscious effort to rein in your addled emotions. If you're still struggling, take the advice of body language expert, Patti Wood, M.A., and split your attention among her mouth, eyes and cheek." This makes wondering eyes less obvious. And don't stop trying: University of Colorado researchers found that meeting her gaze makes you seem powerful.
Labels: Relationships
http://www.mens-health.com.my/2009_03_01_archive.html
Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at http://PattiWood.net. Also check out the body language quiz on her YouTube Channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)