“Kind words are worth much and cost little” – this proverb speaks to the importance of communication in life. But did you know that besides words, there is another language that is equally important: nonverbal communication.
What is Nonverbal Communication?
Nonverbal communication is the way we communicate through actions, gestures, expressions, body language, tone of voice, distance, and physical touch instead of words. According to Professor Nguyen Van A, author of “Effective Communication,” “Nonverbal communication accounts for up to 93% of message transmission, and it can create unexpected effects, even more powerful than words.”
Why is Nonverbal Communication Important?
Imagine meeting someone for the first time and wanting to make a good impression. What would you do? You would definitely try to speak politely and show respect for that person. But do you pay attention to your actions and gestures?
For example, when you talk to someone without looking them in the eye, you create a feeling of distrust and disrespect. Or when you sit in a closed-off posture, you make others feel that you don’t want to communicate. These seemingly small things have a significant impact on the impression you make on others.
Common Types of Nonverbal Communication:
1. Body Language:
- Posture: How you sit, stand, and walk reflects your personality and mood. For example, a person sitting upright with shoulders straight gives a feeling of confidence and dynamism. A person sitting slumped over with shoulders drooped, on the other hand, makes others feel insecure and timid.
- Facial expressions: Smiles, frowns, furrowed brows… are all expressions that show your emotions. A smile brings a feeling of joy and friendliness, while a frown creates a feeling of anger and discomfort.
- Gestures: Waving hello, nodding, shaking your head… are familiar gestures that express agreement, disagreement, greetings…
- Distance: The distance between you and the person you are talking to also reflects the relationship between you. For example, close distance shows intimacy, while far distance shows remoteness.
2. Voice Language:
- Volume: Speaking too loudly or too softly makes listeners uncomfortable. You should adjust the volume to suit the space and situation.
- Tone of voice: A cheerful, gentle tone of voice creates a friendly and comfortable feeling. While a serious, grumpy tone of voice makes listeners uncomfortable.
- Speed: Speaking too fast or too slow makes listeners misunderstand. You should speak at a moderate, easy-to-hear pace.
3. Clothing and Appearance:
- Clothing: Clothing reflects your style and professionalism. You should choose clothes that are appropriate for the situation and the person you are communicating with.
- Appearance: Being neat, clean, and tidy always makes a good impression.
Tips to Improve Your Nonverbal Communication Skills:
- Always pay attention to body language: Practice standing and sitting upright with shoulders straight, and crossing your arms in front of your chest to show confidence.
- Master facial expressions: Practice smiling, expressing joy, and being natural.
- Adjust tone of voice and speaking speed: Speak slowly and clearly, avoiding speaking too fast or too slow.
- Clothing and appearance: Always maintain a neat and tidy appearance, suitable for the situation.
Nonverbal Communication in Relationships:
Nonverbal communication plays an important role in all relationships, from family, friends, colleagues to other social relationships.
- In family: A hug, a smile, a hair stroke… are ways to express affection, love, and care between family members.
- At work: Nonverbal communication helps you build good relationships with colleagues, show professionalism, and build trust with partners.
- In love: Nonverbal communication is the language of love, helping you convey emotions effectively.
A Story About Nonverbal Communication:
Once, I was invited to a job interview. I prepared very carefully for this interview. However, when I walked into the interview room, I felt very flustered. I sat slumped over, my hands trembling, my voice shaky, and I didn’t dare to look the interviewer in the eye. As a result, I was not hired. After the interview, I learned a lesson for myself: Nonverbal communication is very important, and it can make a big difference.
Conclusion:
Nonverbal communication is an important part of communication, it can help you build good relationships and convey messages effectively. Always remember and improve your nonverbal communication skills. Because, “Kind words are worth much and cost little,” but nonverbal communication is also equally important.