Nonverbal means of communication can often be the deal breaker, the closer or the signature of low self-esteem. This form of communication--while silent--can speak volumes about the individual. What is said without the use of words can hold more meaning than what is being said with them. The Communications Department staff at Buffalo State University of New York think that nonverbal communication can account for up to 90 percent of all methods of communication. This is broken down as 70 percent from straight body language, 20 percent from vocal pitch, range and tone, and the last 10 percent coming from actual words.
Body Language
Body language is a method of kinesthetic communication that encompasses facial expressions, body movements, gestures, stance and posture. The University of Louisville College of Business suggests that body language is the gate to emotions and mood--which may ultimately confer or contradict any meaning behid the words being spoken.
Proxemic Physical Environment
The proxemic physical environment is the distance--or proximity--of the speaker's body in conjunction with his audience. According to the Communcations Department at Buffalo State University, the speaker may keep a safe, comfortable distance when the message aims to convey a message attempting to establish trust or peace. Another may elect to stand close by or otherwise exhibit a sense of mastery over his territory or his navigational speaking space and audience members to illustrate authority or control.
Personal Appearance
Personal appearance is considered an artifactual method of communication. The University of North Texas Health Science Technology Education Department defines the statements made with personal attire and grooming followed by modifications--such as a tattoo--which can translate to a thousand words. Symbolically, the presentation of the individual translates whether or not trust can be established. If not, it can close down the conversation, at least on the listener's end.
Vocal Cues
Vocal cues are not so much related to the context of what is being said, but the auditory portion of delivery. The International Association of Conference Interpreters describes this auditory form of nonverbal communication as a means of listening for vocal cues and tones represented through range or pitch. These are then paired with accompanying facial gestures and body language to make a final decision about what is being said. Examples of different tones include: aggressiveness, critical attitudes, nervousness, disappointment, monotony, friendliness, enthusiasm or persuasion.
Touch
Touch is considered a tactile form of communication. According to the University Center Rochester, this type of non-verbal communication includes any physical contact from one individual to the next. The concept of touching another individual is highly dependent on cultural norms and specifics to the type of transaction being attended--i.e., a business meeting. Not all cultures appreciate touch or have very specific rules which apply to the action. However, in most social situations in the United States, a simple ritualistic handshake will suffice.
References
- Buffalo State Communications Department; Unit 2: Verbal and Nonverbal Communication; 2010
- University of Louisville College of Business; Kinesics; 2010
- University of North Texas Health Science Technology Education Department; Clothing and Personal Appearance; 2010
- International Association of Conference Interpreters: University of Geneva Introduction to Interpretation; "The Importance of Nonverbal Communication in Professional Interpretation"; Feb 2005
- University Center Rochester; "Nonverbal Communication Notes: The World Beyond Words"; Wood; 2010
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