Hand Gestures Around the World
Do you think you know what the “okay” sign means? Or, “thumbs up”? What about the “V” sign? Gestures play an important part in our communication. They can replace words. Or, emphasize attitudes and emotions. But, the fact that hand gestures around the world do not have universal meaning makes communicating difficult and can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

Do you think you know what the “okay” sign means? Or, “thumbs up”? What about the “V” sign?

Gestures play an important part in our communication. They can replace words. Or, emphasize attitudes and emotions. But, the fact that hand gestures around the world do not have universal meaning makes communicating difficult and can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

You’ve likely heard that communication is only 7% verbal and 93% non-verbal. Since the non-verbal is made up primarily of body language (55%), it’s pretty important to get it right!

Cultural Mixology invites you to learn more about what your hands may be (unintentionally) communicating to others with our fun infographic below. Consider it your “handy” guide to successful communication cues!

Infographic - Hand Gestures Around the World