Body language reinforces, expresses emotions, and influences message perception.
Importance of Body Language in Oral Communication
Non-Verbal Cues
- Majority of Communication - Research indicates that body language accounts for more than 90% of the information conveyed in communication. This includes gestures, facial expressions, posture, and eye contact, which can enhance or contradict spoken words.
- Reinforcement of Messages - Body language serves to reinforce verbal communication. When non-verbal cues align with spoken words, they enhance clarity and trust. Conversely, when they conflict, they can lead to confusion and mistrust.
Emotional Expression
- Conveying Emotions - Facial expressions and gestures are powerful tools for expressing emotions. They can communicate feelings such as happiness, sadness, anger, and surprise, often more effectively than words alone. This universality helps in establishing emotional connections between speakers and listeners.
- Building Rapport - Positive body language, such as maintaining eye contact and open gestures, fosters rapport and makes individuals appear more approachable and trustworthy. This is essential in both personal and professional interactions.
