Why Is Body Language Important?
You may not consciously think about it while you are doing it, but the use of body language postures and expressions account for more than 50% of the messages, which you communicate to others. While you can use different parts of the body to send nonverbal cues, the important thing is that others understand what it really is you are trying to say.
Body Language Research
Did you know that a number of scientific studies have taken a closer look at the use of body language and the impact it makes on others? The conclusion: nonverbal communication is about more than what a person is trying to say. Body language is like a window looking in, giving others some insight about what you might be thinking or feeling. The facial expressions and body movements that you use when speaking can tell other people a lot about what kind of person you are.
Body language can significantly impact the impression that you make on others. In many situations, words may not always be enough. That’s why it is so important to learn how to communicate effectively, and that includes learning how to use body language to your advantage.
Learning More About The Signals You Send
Then again, you need be careful about the messages you are sending. You can use body language to convey a sense of confidence and trust, as even the smallest gesture has the potential to convey a subconscious message to others. Keep in mind, too, that women and men respond to body language differently. Therefore, you may need to change your body language depending on whether you are communicating with someone of the female or male gender.
Even though your words might be saying one thing, your expressions and body movements could be saying something different. A critical thing to remember about body language is that the better you know people, the better they probably have become at reading the meaning of your gestures. Keeping this in mind, it’s important that you learn to understand your own body language. For example, when you meet people for the first time, you might want to try to be more conscious of your body movements as you talk, as you don’t want the other person to misunderstand what you are saying.
Since body language works to reinforce the message you are putting into words, you need to say what you mean. That way, the proper body language will come naturally. Since in most cases, body language is really hard to fake, it’s good to keep in mind that communication is about what you say and how you say it, as well as how your body reacts to that verbal message.
Body Language Is A Two-Way Street
When you are communicating with someone face-to-face, the words coming out of your mouth may actually carry very little weight. People are likely to be more influenced by the tone of your voice and the way that you express yourself through your body language. However, body language is definitely a two-way street. Not only can it help you communicate your message more clearly to others, body language also reveals how you are reacting to what others say to you. While your verbal response may be worded politely, your body language can betray your true attitude.
Fortunately, by consciously working at it, you can show people that you really are listening to what they are saying. People will feel comfortable talking to you if you take a relaxed stance. If you are curious or enthusiastic about what someone else is communicating, don’t be afraid to let it show in your face. Making direct eye contact and slightly leaning forward are some of the best cues to let others know that you are interested.
