Some people read palms, and others are into studying the structure of feet or bumps on a head to determine personality characteristics about others. I have discovered that lighting board operators each posses a unique style when it comes to pressing the GO button on a desk. The number and placement of fingers, method of pressing and other indicators point to psychological information about the operator. What follows is a guide detailing various methods of pressing the GO button and what they mean about the presser.
The Single Index Finger
Any lighting operator that uses his or her single index finger to trigger the primary GO button prefers to go at life alone with simplicity. In some cases, the single-index type is actually a bit unsure about the actions or cuing taking place. With impeccable timing, an operator using this method is ensured a long life and great shows! If you use this method, then you are a deep thinker and you like to consider everything carefully.
Double Down
Some lighting operators prefer to use two fingers to press the GO button. In most cases it is the index and middle finger placed tightly together. Double the fingers mean double the confidence, and most double finger GO pressers are doing so with a strong inner self-assurance. A double-finger GO press demonstrates commitment and resolve that carries on through the operator’s personal life. Quite often, double finger operators prefer to wear black during show calls.
The Trifecta
When a GO button is pressed using the operator’s three middle fingers, you can be assured that the operator is hitting the cue perfectly. It takes a strong sense of authority and commitment to utilize the power of the Trifecta when taking a cue. By evoking a large part of their body with three fingers, these operators also physically commit to other areas of their lives. You will find they are either athletic or enjoy eating at a near competitive pace.
The Bird
Some GO pressing maniacs find that they only use their solitary middle finger to trigger cues. Typically these types have a rebellious attitude about life and are very excitable. Note that using only the middle finger for a GO press often offends others in the vicinity and could even be the cause of some unknown console crashes. This person is adventurous, needs constant change and hates routine.
Thumb Butte
Although extremely uncommon, some operators will press the GO button with a thumb. Thumb pressers exhibit a higher rate of GO related injuries as the other fingers must move out of the way and often the wrist rotates sideways. Psychologically, thumb pressers prefer complex situations and being different from the norm. You may even find that some of their fingernails are painted (usually black).
Rudolph
It has been experienced that some operators exhibit odd behavior, especially when busking a show. They may find that no fingers are available and instead utilize their nose to press the GO button. By leaning in at just the right moment, the nose is applied to the GO button with a soft pressure resulting in a cue trigger. It can be said that these operators are either risk takers or drunks (or a combination of both).
Further Techniques
The above indicators describe the basic methodology used by lighting console operators to trigger the GO button for cues. Each relates to the personality of the presser and can be an indicator of the person’s abilities and individuality. However there are further markers of skill and character than can be determined, not only by the method used to press GO, but also by the technique. All operators combine a technique with their skill and quite often this technique will change depending upon the type of show or the mood of the operator.
The Woodpecker
When you see an operator hit the GO button and then immediately snap his or her hand away as if the button was hot, you are witnessing the Woodpecker technique. This type of operator will quickly move his/her hand to the GO button, press it, and move away to ensure no additional hits. It may mean that the operator has some insecurity in his or her life or that he/she simply has trust issues. It is advised that you do not stand too close as you may get hit during the recoil.
Follow Through
Mildly neurotic individuals will often press the GO button and then hold it down for up to a second to ensure the cue is activated. This person will usually have his/her feet firmly planted on the ground and be happiest when busy. It is best for this operator to take some time to stop and think when in difficult situations.
Beethoven
Musically included lighting operators often approach the GO button as if playing an essential note in a musical piece. They will hover their finger(s) slightly over the GO button, then, in anticipation of the cue, quickly raise up and immediately slam back down onto the GO button with flawless timing. If you utilize the Beethoven technique, you are sociable and fairly extroverted. You enjoy having a good time and want to ensure that others do too.
FedEx
The FedEx GO presser will keep his or her arms away from the console. Then he/she will extend his/her arm out slowly towards the GO button and press it just in time; then return the arm to a resting position. The “just-in-time” delivery of the GO press dictates the FedEx name of this technique. In many cases, the operator may appear to not be paying attention to the show or even be distracted by other things, such as a phone or book. If you are this type of operator, then you need routine for your sense of security. You are loyal, reliable, and trustworthy, and don’t want too many surprises.
The Masher
Some operators want to ensure that the button is pressed, and they will slam their fingers into the GO button at a high velocity. Often they will await the cue with their fingers prepared and floating a few inches above the console. Then at precisely the right moment, the fingers will come down with ferocity to ensure the GO press is received. This type of person is interested in detail and ensures that he always finish what he starts.
GO NOW!
You may not have ever thought about how you press the GO button. Take a moment during your next show and look at your hands to determine your method and technique. Then refer to the above chart to gain more insight into your self. I have found it interesting lately to point out to operators their style and to find them shocked how accurate the predictions are. Instead of reading palms or studying bumps on skin, consider watching console operators to learn more about human psychology.
