Non-verbal communication is equally as crucial as the spoken words. This encompasses our posture, hand gestures, tone of voice, walking style, and facial expressions. Recent research indicates that the time to make a first impression has shrunk from four minutes to just 90 seconds. In today’s fast-paced world, we form initial judgments based on brief encounters, and others are doing the same with us during these fleeting moments.
Body Language
A significant portion of our face-to-face communication occurs through body language. While our words convey a message, our tone of voice and non-verbal cues either emphasize, reinforce, or contradict what we say. The face and eyes are key components of body language, providing the most expressive means of communication. Additionally, gestures, posture, and physical proximity contribute to the overall message. For effective communication, your body language must align with your spoken words and tone. Inconsistent body language can create mixed and confusing messages, whereas positive body language supports your words and fosters clear understanding.
The Signals People Send
The chart below can be used as a guide to help you with some of the signals that people send.
Non-Verbal Communication |
Interpretation |
|
Facial Expressions |
|
|
Frown |
Displeasure, unhappiness |
|
Smile |
Friendliness, happiness |
|
Raised eyebrows |
Disbelief, amazement |
|
Narrowed eyes |
Anger |
|
Blushing |
Embarrassment |
|
Eye Contact |
|
|
Glancing |
Lack of interest |
|
Steady |
Active listening, interest, seduction |
|
Hand/Arm Gestures |
|
|
Pointing finger |
Authority, displeasure, lecturing |
|
Folded arms |
Not open to change, preparing to speak |
|
Arms at side |
Open to suggestions, relaxed |
|
Hands uplifted outward |
Disbelief, puzzlement, uncertainty |
|
Body Postures |
|
|
Fidgeting, doodling |
Boredom |
|
Hands on hips |
Anger, defensiveness |
|
Shrugging shoulders |
Indifference |
|
Squared stance or shoulders |
Problem-solving, concern, listening |
|
Biting lip, shifting, jingling money |
Nervousness |
|
Sitting on edge of chair |
Listening, great concern |
|
Slouching in chair |
Boredom, lack of interest |
|
Clothing |
|
|
Business dress |
Authoritative, conservative |
|
Sloppy attire |
Disrespect, lack of responsibility |
|
Casual clothes |
Relaxation |
|
Proxemics (Physical Space) |
|
|
From physical contact to 18 inches |
Intimate space |
|
From 18 inches to four feet |
Personal space |
|
From four feet to eight feet |
Social space |
|
From eight feet outward |
Public space |
|
Voice Characteristics |
|
|
Speaking loudly, quickly, and with clipped enunciation |
Anger |
|
Monotone and downward inflection |
Boredom |
|
High pitch, fast rate, loud volume, and upward Inflection |
Joy |
|
Status Symbols |
|
|
Rare or expensive possessions |
High status |
|
Prestigious titles |
High status |
