In the previous topic we explored the physiology of emotions. Another way we can tune in to emotional data is by paying more attention to facial expressions, and we don’t mean the obvious ones.
In this topic we explore the small changes someone’s face makes when they experience a primary emotion, whether or not they consciously realize. By paying attention to this, we can get an understanding of how someone really feels, even if they aren’t ready to admit or discuss it.
Micro Expressions
Micro expressions are brief, involuntary facial expressions that reveal a person’s true emotional state, even when they’re trying to suppress, hide, or mask it. These expressions typically last less than half a second and occur outside of conscious control, making them a reliable window into genuine emotion. Research demonstrates that even when someone tries to hide their feelings, their face may still “leak” emotion through micro expressions. These fleeting cues are often missed unless we’re trained to recognise them but once learned, they become a powerful tool for emotional insight.
For emotionally intelligent leaders, the ability to read micro expressions improves empathy, deepens trust, and enhances communication. When you can pick up on what’s really going on beneath the surface, you’re better equipped to respond with intention, resolve tension early, and support others more effectively.
Micro expressions are now used in fields such as psychology, law enforcement, media, negotiation, healthcare, and leadership, because they offer real-time feedback about how someone is truly feeling, especially in high-stakes or emotionally charged situations.
Micro expressions are considered universal and are linked to seven emotions. These are the primary emotions covered in module three: anger, fear, sadness, disgust, contempt, surprise, and happiness.
Watch this 5 minute explainer video to learn more about the micro expression for each emotion.
If you want to test your skills, here is a link to a free online micro expression test.
Can you name the following 6 facial expressions?
At their full expression, faces can be obvious to recognise. A micro expression refers to the brief 0.5 of a second leak of the emotion even when emotion is trying to be masked. Next time you’re playing poker see if you can notice these in action.
Photo credit to Paul Ekmanns online micro expression training course.
Additional Resource
Below is a downloadable identification cheat-sheet. It details more specific information about physical changes and facial expressions for each of the primary emotions. It covers information in both this, and the previous topic.
Reflective Questions
Take a moment to consider how recognising micro expressions could enhance your leadership:
- When was the last time you sensed someone was feeling something they weren’t saying out loud? How did you respond?
- Which emotion do you find hardest to recognise in others? Why might that be?
- How might paying closer attention to facial cues improve your communication, team dynamics, or conflict resolution skills?
- What might get in the way of noticing micro expressions in real time (e.g. distraction, stress, assumptions)? How can you manage those barriers?
End of module. We look forward to seeing you at your next coaching call.