Understand Non Verbal Communication

Experts say that up to 65% of communication is expressed non-verbally. To help you better understand the dynamics of the unspoken word, we've broken down the basics.

Facial Expressions - Your facial expressions are the most telling thing about you. They indicate exactly what you are thinking and how you're feeling. As a side note...studies have shown that people who smiled more, regardless of their true character, were considered more likable and friendly than their peers. So...start smiling more.

Eye Contact - The eyes are the window to the soul. They easily reveal whether you're intently listening to someone or trying to space-out. Make eye contact often and never stare off into space (for longer than 2-3 seconds) when being spoken to.

Body Posturing - The way you stand, walk, and sit, speaks volumes about who you are as a person and what you're thinking. If you're having a conversation with someone and you lean back and cross your arms, you're conveying a sense of defensiveness or skepticism. On the other hand, if you close the distance between the two of you and keep your arms in an un-crossed and relaxed position, you'll give off a sense of receptiveness.

Gestures - Your mannerisms can give people an insight into your personality. If you make use of hand movements and head nods while speaking, you'll appear to be an animated person. On the other hand, if you stand completely erect and motionless while speaking, you'll appear to be dull and boring.

Paralinguistics - AKA...how the words sound when they come out of your mouth. The way you use tone, pitch, loudness, inflection, and rhythm will alter the way your message is received. By varying these elements (not sounding monotone), you'll seem interesting and far more enthusiastic.