Research has shown that eyes are the single most important attribute of non-verbal communication that indicates dominance. Although some consider voice qualities such as, pitch, pausing, pace and other elements a significant part of body language, these are not addressed in this piece.Īs the old saying goes: “Eyes are more accurate witnesses than our ears.” Eyes are the most unconscious indicators of what a person is really thinking or saying, and are the hardest to mask. The three major aspects of non-verbal communication explored in this article include eyes, facial expressions and posture. For example, in some cultures looking away from a person when he/she is speaking signals disrespect, while in other cultures it is assumed that looking away indicates respect. There can be significant cultural differences when it comes to interpreting these messages. Also, there is not universality in the meaning of the various non-verbal movements. Noting a number of signals is far more reliable. They may also be proficient at masking their own non-verbal messages.īefore diving into the subject of non-verbal communication, remember one major caveat: never rely on just one element of body language. It must not be forgotten that skilled communicators are often not only well versed in reading signals from other people’s eyes, expressions and gestures, but also are more adept at making sure that their verbal and non-verbal messages match. Just like the mediator, an attorney needs to be proficient at listening, observing and understanding the entire message: “Is this really their last offer?” or “Are they going to walk?” or “Is he telling the truth?” Without getting both the spoken and the unspoken message, an attorney or any negotiator might not get the best deal, and leave something on the table. Some say up to 93 percent of a message is non-verbal.īeing able to interpret the non-verbal signals will not only improve a mediator’s ability to listen and understand what is being conveyed, but also aid the mediator to determine if a person is credible, or if there is empathy, which are often requisite factors when finding resolution in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. There is extensive research on what percentage of a communication is verbal versus what is non-verbal. Whether you call it “reading between the lines,” non-verbal communication or interpreting body language, getting the entire message includes more than just the words spoken.
0 kommentar(er)
