Do you know an alpha?
Alpha: n The alpha is the individual in the community with the highest rank.
We all know someone who has a natural magnetism. Someone who walks into a room and people look. Someone who speaks and people listen. Someone who was born to lead. Or maybe that someone is you?
Alphas are very important in our society. Every group needs a leader to take charge in a crisis, set the tone, call the shots and set the standards. Typically the alpha, or leader of a group is the most ____ in a group. If it’s on an athletic team, they are the most athletic. In business it can be the most senior person. In dating it can be the most attractive person.
Alphas have a very specific set of nonverbal behaviors that signify to others in the group and to the outside world that they are the top dog.
1. Typically leaders smile less
Smiling is a subordinate behavior. Women smile more to please others and are therefore less often the alpha. If you are in a powerful room, smile purposefully.
2. Alphas interrupt
They speak and expect others to listen. Notice if a leader in your life interrupts you and then politely correct them with something like “I can’t get a word in with you!”
3. Trick question!
Alphas hold eye contact when they are speaking but look away when others speak to them. This is a very rude behavior and take note if you do this to others. If someone does it to you stop talking until they look back at you.
4. Leaders stand still
Leaders have less movement as they are observers, others move around them. People should try not to fidget, pace and hop if they want to be perceived as more powerful and in control.
5. Leaders keep their head very still
Nodding is a sign of submission. You can nod to show agreeableness but be aware of head bobbing!