Don't Use Hands Too Much

When talking, people usually use their hands to illustrate some points. However, some people use their hands too much and hand movements then no longer illustrate points but attract more (negative) attention than what come out of the person talking 's mouth.

Why people use their hands too much while talking

One common reason why people use their hands too much when they talk is because they are nervous or they are struggling to find the next proper words. By distracting people with their hands, it gives them more confidence and time to find words. Sometimes, you will see that when people cannot find words and they move their hands too much to convey a message, the listener will say 'ok, I get it - move on'. For people who lack pride and confidence, this seems like an easy escape to them. However, for those with manners, confidence, and pride, it is a failure that they will work on until they don't have to be saved by their hands. Over time, a lot of people use their hands without even knowing why they do it anymore.

Should I use my hands when talking?

While it is ok to use your hands once in a while to illustrate BIG points. If you use your hands too much throughout the conversation, it is no longer seen as an illustration but an annoying body language and display of lack of confidence or nervousness.

Also, people usually use their hands to illustrate a point when talking to a group of people such as in a conference in front of many people to amplify their body language. If you are talking one on one or to a small group, everyone can see you and you do not need to illustrate more with your hands.

Don't use hands at all when talking

Most of the time it is polite to not use your hands at all when talking to someone or a group. When asked a question, just answer politely without using hands. You may offend people if you use your hands incorrectly such as accidentally pointing at the person you are talking to. So, to avoid troubles, just don't use your hands when talking. Use words. After all, educated people can communicate with words without the help of visual aids or tools. If you have problems communicating, practice until you can describe things with words.