Loud & Clear: The True Impact of Nonverbal Communication

You’ve heard it before; “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” The irrefutable fact is that in every situation our body language – or nonverbal communication – always speaks louder than our words.In light of this truth, learning to effectively read nonverbal cues can be an invaluable skill in countless business interactions. Whether you’re in a meeting, interview, pitch or presentation, understanding the full realm of what is being communicated will give you a tremendous edge, telling you when it’s time to pull back or if it’s safe to push on. And since the cues of nonverbal communication are universal, it only takes practice to hone your body language skills.The power of nonverbal communication is tremendous, so it’s important not only to learn how to accurately read others, it is also critical to know what you are conveying through your own body language. Your successful communication will require that you not undermine your verbal message with damaging nonverbal cues.A leading body language expert, Joe Navarro, explains that facial cues tend to be our primary focus when searching for information and often, contrary to what is being said, facial expressions are “real time indicators of what’s going on in the brain.” For instance, nervousness, hostility and weakness can all be expressed through something as innocent as a furrowed brow.Nonverbal communication also includes hand gestures, body positioning, and how we occupy the space around us, all of which become key indicators of how our thoughts align with our words. For instance, did you know that you might be inadvertently communicating disinterest just by pointing your feet toward the door? Other behaviors that will signal your discomfort – and thereby weaken your message – include touching your neck, lowering your head, or jiggling your feet.You can learn to identify and eliminate the behaviors that may be holding you back and find yourself in a more commanding position, able to steer the outcome of interactions that had previously felt out of your control.