| Communication is at the base of any relationship, be it personal or professional. Though we try to communicate verbally but 80% of our communication is actually non verbal and our body language can speak volumes thus revealing many part of our personality which we may have tried not to expose. When we interact we continuously give non verbal signals and also receive such cues. Our body language that is the gestures we make, the way we sit, how fast or how loud we talk, how close we stand, what is our hand movement, how much eye contact we make-send strong messages. These signals speak louder than any of our verbal communication. These non verbal messages do not stop even after we stop speaking. Therefore it is well remarked that silence is another language in itself and can speak volumes. It is because, the non verbal gestures are more pronounced and can be more impactful than any verbal communication. In many instances, what you speak and what you communicate through your body language may be totally different. When faced with these mixed signals, the listener has to choose whether to believe your verbal or nonverbal message. Invariably, one chooses the nonverbal because it's more natural, its an unconscious language that broadcasts the true feelings and intentions. As a listener also it is important to know that how we listen, look, move, and react as it tells the other person whether or not we care, how truthful we are, and whether we really understand what has been spoken or are we in congruence or at a conflict. When the nonverbal signals match up with the words one speaks, it increases trust, clarity, and rapport. When it does not match then it can generate tension, mistrust, and confusion. To become a better communicator, it's important to become more sensitive not only to the body language and nonverbal cues of others, but also to ones own. Sometimes many people send confusing or negative nonverbal signals without even knowing it or being aware about it. When this happens, both connection and trust are damaged. Communication is like a lifeline of any relationship. All relationships have their ups and downs, but through a healthy communication style it becomes easier to deal with the conflicts and thus build a deeper understanding between the partners. During an HR interview as well, many times a candidates body language may speak volumes about his/her personality. This may be more impactful than most which is communicated verbally in the interview. Communication skills play a crucial role in honing one's personality. It is important that the thoughts, feelings and knowledge be passed on in the most desirable manner and effective communication skills help in the same. |
