We communicate with much more than words: when we interact with someone, our body has a language of its own. The way we sit, the gestures we make, the way we talk, how much eye contact we make – all of these are non-verbal ways of communicating that impact the messages our words are sending.

Our verbal messaging is communicated via the words that we use. The verbal message is of course an important part of our communication, but the way we communicate non-verbally is equally, and sometimes more, important. Nonverbal communication includes the following: Tone of voice, rate and volume of speech, how we articulate our words, rhythm, intonation and stress placed on words, facial expression, the amount of eye contact we make, and  gestures/touch/posturing.

Research shows that when we communicate feelings and attitudes, only a small percentage of our overall message comes from the words we use.  Fifty-five percent  of our message comes from body language (especially from movements of the small muscles around the eye which can convey shock, disbelief, doubt or disgust); 38% of our message comes from tone of voice; only 7% of our message is conveyed by the words we use.

It’s not what we say, but how we say it that often matters most, especially when we communicate feelings and attitudes. Tone of voice alone can convey anger, frustration, confidence, disappointment, sarcasm, affection or indifference. Join us as we explore this topic as well as a powerpoint on body language.

Check out these titles:

Five Stars: The Communication Secrets to Get From Good to Great by Carmine Gallo

The Gift of Gab: How Eloquence Works by David Crystal

The Gentle Art of Verbal Self-Defense At Work by Suzette Haden Elgin

Are you looking for a brand new kind of book club?

We think we have something you’ll enjoy. Instead of all reading the same book and then discussing, you get to do it your way … Read a book or an article, listen to a podcast or an interview, watch a documentary, or just bring your experiences or opinions and we will then discuss. Clearly, it is “not your Mama’s book club.” We usually meet on the first Tuesday of every month (except July & September we’ll meet on the second Tuesday) at 2p.m.in the Boardroom.

This month our topic is:  Not Your Mama’s Book Club: Verbal Vs. Non-Verbal Communication. We would love to see you Tuesday, August 7, at 2 p.m. in the Boardroom!