If there is some information that needs to be conveyed, why not use the gift that separates us from the rest of the animals on earth, namely the ability to speak. And while you're at it, why not speak in complete sentences. And "please" and "thank you" are always a great way to get what you want.
Here are some examples of hand gestures which are common and extremely annoying.
One of my favorite is the person who walks up to the host stand with her hand outstretched and three fingers in the air. I think they are trying to tell me something about their party, but what could it be?
"Hi folks, how are you?" I ask. The person continues to hold up the hand, and then someone behind her does the same thing.
Are they waving? Is that why they have their hands up? What could they possibly be trying to say, and why not just say it with words: "Fine, thanks, we have three for dinner, please."
Another great gesture is the point to the drink glass. The server is at the table, perhaps filling waters or clearing some empty plate, when the gentleman in seat three points to his empty martini glass.
What could this mean? I think what he meant to do was actually say words which have meaning, like "I'll take another one of these, please."
Also the writing in the air gesture, to mean, "We'll take the check, please." Why not just speak, darn it?
I realize that some people gesture instead of talking because it seems expeditious. But part of the pleasure of a meal at a restaurant should be a sense of civilization and sophistication. By speaking one can show one's good breeding and genteel nature. Full sentences really show people you mean business, and being polite shows that you have a good nature.
Non-verbal communication is for animals. Speak!
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