Body Language

Also known as Non Verbal Communication (NVC). Research indicates that up to 50% of the complete meaninng within the message in spoken communications is actually conveyed by non-verbal channels. Aspects such as your expressions, body posture, gestures and movement can all indicate how you are feeling about the situation, the subject matter or the other person/people present.

When the body language is congruent with the words and tone used in spoken communications then there is a reinforcement between the various communication channels. However, when there is a mis-match between the words, tone and the body language displayed then the message will be a confused one.

Body language is generally perceived in clusters of signals; all of which collectively indicate a particular feeling, emotion or experience. Skillful communicators are able to read the body language of others in order that they get an insight to what the other person is truly thinking or feeling. They are also acutely aware of the body language signals they are displaying, so that they do not give out confusing or unwanted messages either knowingly or inadvertently.

Examples of Body Language (web)

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External Link (web)

External Link (pdf)