Palms up
Open hands read as open and honest. Use your own, read theirs lightly.
What it is
Showing open palms is widely seen as a sign of openness and nothing to hide. Many sales trainers teach it as part of looking trustworthy.
How to use it
- Keep your own hands visible on video calls and in person.
- Use an open-hand gesture when you invite questions or hand over a decision.
- Notice when a buyer moves from crossed arms to open hands; it often comes with them warming up.
What it sounds like
You: (Open hands) Over to you. What would you change about this plan?
Where it goes wrong
Gestures vary by person and culture. Do not read too much into anyone else's hands. Focus on what they say.