Effective communication involves both verbal and nonverbal cues from "summary" of The Power of People Skills by Trevor Throness
Effective communication is not just about the words we say. It also involves nonverbal cues that play a crucial role in how our message is received. Verbal communication is what we say, whether it's in person, over the phone, or through written messages. It is the content of our message, the words we use to convey our thoughts and emotions. However, words alone are not enough to effectively communicate with others.
Nonverbal cues, on the other hand, include body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and gestures. These cues provide additional information that complements and enhances the verbal message. For example, a smile can indicate friendliness and warmth, while a furrowed brow can signal confusion or concern. The way we stand, make eye contact, and use our hands can also convey meaning and emotions that words alone cannot express.
When verbal and nonverbal cues are aligned, our communication becomes more powerful and impactful. However, when there is a mismatch between what we say and how we say it, confusion and misunderstanding can arise. This is why it is essential to pay attention to both aspects of communication and ensure they are in harmony.
In some cases, nonverbal cues can even outweigh verbal communication. Studies have shown that a significant portion of our communication is nonverbal, with body language and tone of voice accounting for a large part of how our message is interpreted. This means that even if our words are saying one thing, our nonverbal cues may be saying something completely different.
To be an effective communicator, we must be mindful of both our verbal and nonverbal cues. This requires self-awareness and the ability to read and interpret the nonverbal cues of others. By paying attention to both aspects of communication, we can ensure that our message is clear, concise, and well-received.
