7 body language gestures that come across as slightly arrogant

Have you ever walked out of a meeting or social gathering wondering why people seemed a bit off, only to later realize that maybe, just maybe, it was you? 

Don’t sweat it, we’ve all been there. 

Sometimes we give off vibes we’re not even aware of, but unfortunately they can leave a lasting impression. 

It’s not that we intend to be arrogant, but our body language could be sending messages we didn’t mean to convey. 

So let’s dig into this sensitive subject — here are 7 body language gestures that might accidentally make you come across as slightly arrogant. Trust me, we’re all guilty of a few.

1) Crossed arms

Picture this: you’re at a casual get-together, and someone across the room has their arms crossed. What’s the first thing that comes to your mind? 

If you’re like most people, you might think, “They’re not very approachable.”

I know, I know, it’s a natural stance for many of us. I catch myself doing it when I’m lost in thought or just trying to keep warm. 

But here’s the thing: crossing your arms can easily be interpreted as a signal that you’re closed off or uninterested in what’s happening around you.

Most of us have no idea we’re giving off this vibe. We may simply find it comfortable, or even grounding, to hold our arms that way. 

But regardless of our intent, it can come across as a defensive barrier between us and the rest of the world.

So, what’s the fix? Try letting your arms hang naturally by your sides or resting your hands in your lap. This more open posture invites conversation and shows you’re engaged, both crucial for coming across as approachable rather than arrogant.

2) Eye-rolling

Ah, the infamous eye-roll. It’s like the universal shorthand for “I can’t believe this is happening” or “Are you kidding me?” 

But what may feel like a harmless expression of disbelief to you could actually look pretty disdainful to others.

I remember chatting with a friend who frequently rolled her eyes when she disagreed with something. She didn’t mean any harm by it; it was just her go-to reaction. 

But when I finally mustered the courage to bring up how it made me a little uncomfortable, she was genuinely surprised. She had no idea how it made her appear dismissive and arrogant to others.

If you find yourself resorting to the eye-roll, whether it’s out of habit or frustration, it’s worth considering how it might be perceived. 

Like it or not, eye-rolling can send a potent message of disapproval or condescension, even if that’s the last thing on your mind.

Instead, aim for more constructive ways to show disagreement or skepticism. A simple shake of the head or a polite “I see where you’re coming from, but…” can convey your point without making you seem arrogant.

3) Constantly checking your watch or phone

We’ve all been there: you’re in a conversation, and the other person keeps glancing at their watch or phone. How does that make you feel? Not very great, right? 

And yet, many of us are guilty of this without even realizing it.

Perhaps you’re tracking the time because you have another appointment to catch, or maybe you’re waiting for an important call. I get it; life’s busy. 

But doing this sends the message that you have something more important awaiting your attention, making the person you’re conversing with feel like a second priority.

Of course, you’re not intentionally trying to be rude or arrogant. It’s a modern-day habit fueled by our need to multitask and stay connected. 

Yet, to others, it can make you appear impatient, uninterested, or even disrespectful.

Next time you’re tempted to take a quick peek at your watch or phone, ask yourself if it’s truly necessary. If it’s urgent, be transparent about it — let the other person know why you need to check. 

Otherwise, resist the urge and give the gift of your full attention. It’s a small but impactful way to show that you value your time with them.

4) Turning your back to someone

I once went on a trip with a group of friends, and we stayed in a cozy but tiny AirBnB.

One evening, we all crammed into the tiny kitchen to chat, and there wasn’t enough space for all of us around the table.

I ended up sitting on one side of the room… right behind a friend of mine, who had his back turned to me the whole time.

Now, this friend is probably the least arrogant person on the planet. I’m sure he didn’t realize how it came off at all. 

But I still remember how rude it felt that he didn’t care to adjust his position to let me feel more included in the conversation.

Because whether it’s intentional or not, turning your back to someone you’re interacting with can come across as disrespectful, dismissive, and yes, a tad arrogant.

The solution is straightforward: be conscious of your orientation during conversations. If you must turn away, offer a brief explanation or just a quick “sorry” to avoid any misunderstandings. 

Remember, showing attentiveness through body language is just as important as listening itself; it’s a vital part of a respectful and meaningful dialogue.

5) Interrupting others frequently 

You’re in the middle of an engaging conversation, you can’t contain your excitement, and before you know it, you’ve cut someone off mid-sentence. Sounds familiar? Most of us have done this at one point or another, often without ill intent.

I have a family member who’s the king of interruptions. It’s not that he thinks his ideas are more important; he’s just so passionate that he can’t help but chime in. 

Yet, it’s easy to perceive this as an arrogant move, as though what he has to say is so crucial it can’t wait its turn.

Here’s the thing: frequent interruptions can unintentionally signal that you believe your thoughts are more important than those of the person speaking. 

This can be frustrating for others and might even discourage them from sharing their opinions with you in the future.

Next time you find yourself eager to jump into a conversation, try taking a mental step back. Let the other person finish their thought, and then wait an extra second to really make sure they’re done before you share yours. 

Not only will this make conversations more enjoyable for everyone involved, but it’ll also enrich your understanding of different perspectives. It’s a win-win!

6) Oversized personal space

I’m sure you’ve encountered this situation — you’re in a crowded café, train, or waiting room, and someone’s bag claims its very own seat. 

Or maybe you’ve been in a meeting where someone sprawls out so much, their arms and legs almost invade your personal bubble. 

This can come off as a sense of entitlement to the space around them, even if the person doing it is completely unaware.

It’s as if you’re saying, “My comfort is more important than yours.” While you might simply be aiming for a relaxed posture, you could be making those around you feel cramped or disrespected.

So, next time you find yourself reaching for that empty seat to place your bag, or stretching out during a meeting, consider the space you’re taking up. 

Being mindful of how you occupy space is not just courteous, it’s a subtle way to show you’re aware and considerate of others’ comfort as well.

7) Tapping fingers or feet

Let’s say you’re sitting through a meeting that’s dragging on, or you’re waiting for someone who’s running late. Your fingers may start to drum a little beat on the table, or your foot begins to tap away, in tune with your growing impatience. 

It might be a harmless way for you to channel your restlessness, but have you ever paused to consider how it comes across to others?

A friend of mine was a chronic foot-tapper. Whether we were sitting at a café or gathered for a team meeting, his foot would tap, tap, tap away. 

Though he was a great guy, this habit often gave people the impression that he was disengaged or thought he had better things to do.

It’s as if you’re drumming up a silent soundtrack that says, “Let’s get this over with.” Even if you don’t mean it that way, that’s how it might be perceived.

Instead, try to channel that restless energy into more engaged body language. Make eye contact, nod your head to show you’re listening, or simply place your hands on your lap to show you’re fully present. 

These little changes can help show others that you’re respectful and invested in the moment, rather than waiting for an opportunity to make your exit.

The subtle dance of body language: mastering the unspoken

And there you have it — 7 body language gestures that, while often unintentional, can project a hint of arrogance or disinterest. 

Remember, body language is like a silent conversation that we’re all engaged in, whether we realize it or not. 

Being aware of these small but impactful gestures can help you navigate social waters with grace and empathy. 

So the next time you find yourself tapping your foot or glancing at your watch, pause and consider the unspoken messages you’re sending. 

By making small tweaks, you’ll not only elevate your own presence but also create a more harmonious environment for everyone around you.