It’s been a busy few weeks at Humourology HQ, with media organisations – including the BBC and Sky – reaching out to me for insights on Donald Trump’s meetings with world leaders.
If nothing else, Trump is a gift that keeps on giving for psychologists, body language experts, and media commentators.
The standout spectacle? The Battle of the TV Titans: Donald Trump vs. Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office. It was a gripping showdown, a psychologist’s dream – but probably the world’s nightmare. The atmosphere was electric, the tension palpable, and like a car crash, it was shocking and sad but impossible to look away from.
Trump vs. Zelenskyy: A Masterclass in Power Plays
Trump, never one for subtlety, went full alpha male, using classic dominance techniques – leaning forward aggressively, puffing out his chest, and turning a curious shade of red as he accused Zelenskyy of ‘gambling with World War III.’ His body stiffened as he spat out the words ‘disrespectful,’ with his signature micro-sneer making an appearance – one of his classic I’m in charge facial tells.
But Zelenskyy didn’t play the game. Rather than responding with bluster, he countered with sheer resilience. His body language signalled complete disengagement from Trump’s aggression – no flinching, no retreat, just a focused, determined stance as he presented photos of war-ravaged Ukraine. While Trump was all about the big performance, Zelenskyy’s defiance was in his stillness – a powerful contrast that spoke volumes.
What we saw here was a perfect example of two completely different styles of leadership clashing – one built on bravado, the other on resilience. And as any seasoned observer knows, when someone is truly powerful, they don’t need to tell you – they just are.
Trump’s Awkward Meetings: A Study in Contrasts
Trump’s interactions with other world leaders only reinforced his one-size-fits-all approach to dominance. When he met UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, the contrast was stark. Trump was relaxed – owning the space like he was back in the boardroom on The Apprentice – while Starmer looked like a schoolboy on his first day, slightly rigid and trying too hard to appear at ease.
Then there was his touchy-feely meeting with Emmanuel Macron – a bizarre display of excessive thigh-patting and prolonged hand-holding. Some might call it camaraderie; others might say it looked like an awkward tango of forced rapport. Either way, it highlights an important truth – real connection isn’t about forced gestures; it’s about authentic communication.
And yet, despite the awkwardness, Trump still managed to steal the headlines. Like a seasoned reality TV star, he knows that perception beats reality. Whether he’s puffing himself up, belittling an opponent, or simply turning an interview into theatre, he remains centre stage. It’s a skill, even if it’s not always an admirable one.
Lessons for Business Leaders: How Not to Trip Up Like Trump
For those in the business world, these political dramas offer valuable lessons in leadership and communication. Here’s how to avoid making the same mistakes:
Real Confidence Doesn’t Need a Performance
True leaders don’t have to tell people they’re in charge; their presence speaks for them. If you find yourself over-explaining your authority, you’ve already lost the battle.
Adapt Your Style to Your Audience
Trump’s approach is always Trump’s approach, no matter who he’s dealing with. But real leaders know that different situations require different tactics. The best communicators read the room and adjust accordingly.
Composure is Key
In high-stakes situations, the ability to stay calm under pressure is priceless. Losing your cool – whether in politics or business – makes you look weak, not strong.
Ultimately, Trump’s meetings weren’t just geopolitical theatre; they were a live case study in the psychology of communication. And while the world may have been left reeling, for those of us who study behaviour, it was a masterclass in what not to do.
If you want to be a great leader, take notes – but not necessarily from Trump.
See you next Tuesday.
Warmest,
Paul x
