The Importance Of Nonverbal Communication

You are now aware of the little voice in your head narrating every single world that you are reading this very minute. That little voice is an example of communication, and the most important form of communication is nonverbal. This is something that is necessary to all human interaction. Many people do not realize that nonverbal communication is such a vast topic that we use involuntarily during every waking moment of our lives.

Nonverbal communication is the form of communication in which gestures, posture, space, and inaudible speaking are used to convey a message without using verbal words or sounds. It allows for better understanding between the communicator and the receiver, and can strengthen the intensity or ease the atmosphere of a conversation. Not only that, but it is the “behavior and elements of speech aside from the words themselves that transmit meaning. Non-verbal communication includes pitch, speed, tone and volume of voice, gestures and facial expressions, body posture, stance, and proximity to the listener, eye movements and contact, and dress and appearance.”(1)

Though all kinds of communication is necessary, nonverbal communication is by far the most important. It is increasingly important due to the fact that it takes up more than half of all forms of communication, and allows for a clearer message. “Research suggests that only 5 percent effect is produced by the spoken word, 45 percent by the tone, inflexion, and other elements of voice, and 50 percent by body language, movements, eye contact, etc.” (1) Most nonverbal cues (Including: body movements, voice, facial expressions, etc.) not only allow for lucid conversations, but while meeting someone new they play a key role on how people perceive you. “You ...

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... steps include, but are not limited to 1. wanting to change 2. reflection upon current means of communication 3. Be willing to put forth effort in order to make the change happen

4. learn to recognize the difference between hearing and listening. If you truly learn to understand someone and their means of communication, you will be more equipped to handle your own 5. realize that this is not a quick and speedy process, but will allow for a greater skill in nonverbal communication that can be used anywhere.

Nonverbal communication is necessary for human interaction and all communication because it allows for more in depth conversation and it is an automatic human response. Due to the fact that it is used daily and is has to do with all communication as a whole, it is imperative that you are aware of what your cues say about yourself and what others are giving off.