Unlocking the Power of Nonverbal Communication - Special Issue
Today, we're delving into the art and science of body language—a fundamental component of human interaction that you might not have given much thought to, until now. But by the end of this newsletter, you'll realise just how pivotal it is, and how you can harness its potential to build stronger, more genuine relationships.
Illustration by Hao Hao
Raising the eyebrows, a gentle tap on the leg, folding the arms, sinking into a chair, and rolling the eyes are all nuanced methods we use to convey messages.
In everyday terms, the concept of body language remains consistent with its scientific interpretation. However, in scholarly discussions, the term "kinesics" is emphasised. Originating from the Greek word "kinesis," which translates to "motion,". Kinesics delves into the study of movements, encompassing hands, arms, the body, and face, and how they facilitate social exchanges.
Several dimensions of nonverbal communication fall under kinesics:
Gestures: Broadly categorised into:
Adaptors: Touch-related behaviours reflecting inner emotions, such as anxiety. For instance, fidgeting when nervous.
Emblems: Universally recognised signs with specific meanings, like a thumbs-up denoting approval.
Illustrators: These gestures, usually made unintentionally, help visualise a point, like using hands to depict an object's size.
Arms crossed can be a sign of defensiveness or discomfort. In contrast, open hands can show honesty and openness.
Head Movements and Posture: These signify acknowledgment and indicate interest. A head nod as you walk past an acquaintance is a classic example. Additionally, leaning forward during a conversation often shows engagement and interest. Standing tall with shoulders back suggests confidence, while slouching or hunching over can indicate low self-esteem or disinterest.
Illustration from freepik.com
Eye Contact: Eyes play a pivotal role in communication. They indicate when we want to initiate or conclude a conversation, help decipher others' nonverbal cues, demonstrate interest or lack thereof, and foster connection. When someone maintains good eye contact, it often indicates attentiveness and interest. Conversely, rapidly shifting eyes can signal discomfort or evasion.
Facial Expressions: Our face is a canvas of emotions. While many expressions are culturally bound, five are universally recognized: joy, sorrow, fear, rage, and revulsion. A genuine smile (that reaches the eyes) can create a sense of warmth, while a furrowed brow might express confusion or concern.
Why Is Body Language So Important?
Beyond Words: Approximately 60% of communication is nonverbal. This means that even if you're a wordsmith, there's a vast realm of interaction that words simply can't cover.
First Impressions Matter: Before you even introduce yourself, your body has already conveyed a multitude of messages about you. An open posture can indicate confidence, while avoiding eye contact might hint at nervousness or dishonesty. There’s that adage, “Actions speak louder than words.” And the body speaks volumes, helping to reiterate messages or reinforce statements.
Mastering nonverbal cues has many perks. Here are five:
Positive gestures make you more likable.
It lowers stress.
Boosts understanding of emotions.
Makes you feel better.
Raises your confidence.
Reciprocal Body Language: Dance of Connection
Mirroring is a natural and often subconscious process where one person subtly mimics the body language of another. It's a sign of empathy and rapport.
Example: Imagine you're at a café, chatting with a friend. If you lean in and they lean in too, there's likely a mutual interest and connection. On the other hand, if they lean back or look away, they might be signalling disengagement.
Illustration from creative market.com
The office is filled with opportunities to pick up on nonverbal cues, whether it’s a discussion between co-workers or a presentation. Here’s how it can look: