Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication is very powerful. Much of what you say does not come from the words that you speak, but what you do with your body while you are speaking. This is your body language.

Usually, when your non verbal communication conflicts with your verbal communication, the body language wins.

Reading body language can tell you a lot about what a person is feeling. For example did you know that:

• Standing with your arms folded across your chest symbolizes defensiveness

• Standing with your hands on your hips symbolizes aggression

• Resting your head in your hands symbolizes boredom

• Tilting your head symbolizes interest

• Playing with your hair symbolizes insecurity

• Rubbing your nose symbolizes deception

Nonverbal communication also includes your tone of voice. Have you ever tried saying "Good boy" to your dog in a very angry tone of voice? Try it. You will see that the dog will cower, thinking he is in trouble. This is because he is picking up more on your tone of voice than the words you are saying.

Hand gestures can also communicate a clear message. Waving your arms about wildly can easily lead someone to believe that you are angry.

You can also deliver an effective message with touch. A soft touch on the shoulder can symbolize affection while a hard grasp sends the message of dominance.

Facial expressions play a huge part in non verbal communication. The eyes and eyebrows tend to send very clear messages, not only in the emotion they display, but also in where you focus your gaze.

Eye contact is good while communicating, but staring too intently can be read as aggressive and continually shifting your focus and avoiding eye contact can indicate insecurity or deception.

Be aware of what your body language is saying. Don't send the wrong message. Also,