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| body language |
Communication is
undoubtedly an important part of our social interactions. It does not
necessarily have to be through speaking or writing to the other person. Humans
have evolved to be social creatures, and this evolution manifests as an understanding
of our body’s response to certain situations and conversations. This body
language is a form of non-verbal communication that is as important as oral and
written communication. This article attempts to provide simple interpretations
of what certain body postures mean.
1. Maintaining eye contact
It is common knowledge
that maintaining eye contact while speaking or being spoken to is a sign of
confidence. This, of course, can be used for either positive or negative
intentions. Positive eye contact is just a show of confidence, no ulterior
motive attached. Negative use of eye contact, on the other hand, has an
ulterior motive attached. It usually is done to manipulate or deceive the other
person. In some cases, breaking eye contact is also a sign the other person is
lying.
2. Observe the movement of a head
While conversing the speed at which a person nods their head
when you are speaking indicates their patience. Slow nodding indicates that the person is interested in what you are saying and wants you to continue talking.
Fast nodding indicates the person has heard enough and wants you to finish
speaking or give him or her a turn to speak
3. Fiddling with clothing
A person who is fiddling
with his/her dress is giving an outward show of nervousness. It usually has to
do with having dressed poorly but not in all cases. When it is due to being
poorly dressed, the fiddling is usually accompanied by breaking eye contact and
rushed speech.
4. Folded hands and tapping feet
Folded hands and tapping feet is usually a sign of withheld
thoughts. It shows a desire to not share or to not be entirely open with the
other person. It is not necessarily about lying, as it might be a situation
where the person is avoiding saying hurtful or inciting words. Tapping the foot,
on the other hand, usually points to impatience or nervousness or both.
Transmission of information and feedback make up the cycle of
communication. We all speak and listen through our body. If it is read
correctly, it is as good as verbal and written communication. People working in
various fields need to learn and master this art for a successful career.
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