Passive intimidation?

[FeiLin]

So the barbarian at our table wanted to do some intimidation, but found out his skill was a meager single digit. Is that reasonable for a high ST SM1 character? Are there any optional rules for basing it on ST, giving a bonus for SM or something for a “non social” character to use brawn in a conversation?

Barring that, what does a failed roll represent when the barbarian leans in over the table during the negotiations cracking his knuckles – making an overly serious and socially awkward face that makes the target burst out laughing rather than take it seriously? Well, that it happens virtually every time, I mean.

Or are there any “Terror lite” advantages or something that would help? Although, that shouldn’t be necessary; it should come with high ST and/or SM. I could of course act on the situation like a player, but that didn’t make sense either.

How should I help the player to get what he wants (to contribute with his intimidating presence in spite of being dumb as an ass)?