Scientists came to their conclusions after conducting two studies. The first involved filming an actress delivering a short speech while standing in several different positions.

They then asked 1,500 viewers to rate the woman on everything from her appearance to her perceived intelligence.

A second experiment saw 500 volunteers watching actors and actresses delivering speeches in one of two positions: a power pose or a submissive stance (hands by their side and awkwardly swaying).

Volunteers said rated those in the power poses as more confident, convincing and inspiring, and said they’d be more likely to vote for them in an election.

Co-researcher of the study, Richard Newman, tells the Daily Mail that the findings could be particularly helpful for women – who are conditioned to stand in a ‘feminine’ manner:

“If women can overcome their cultural conditioning and communicate using a stronger style, it could significantly increase their impact and influence and overall success in the workplace.

“Gender should never be a barrier to your ideas being heard.”

Want to do well at work? You’d better learn to stand like a man, say scientists