Reading B2What is body language?
Body language is a type of nonverbal communication where physical behavior is used to express information. Such physical behavior often includes facial expressions, gestures, body posture, eye movements, and touch.
What is the study of body language called?
The scientific study of interpreting body language is referred to as kinesics. Reading body language signs is an important part of communication. The importance of body language is that it assists us in understanding and decoding what the person is saying. Body language also helps interpret other peoples’ moods and emotions.
Physical Expressions of Body Language
Study shows you how nonverbal communication is deeply rooted in the brain and tells you about the importance of body language in communication.
With only 7% of our attention on verbal communication, it’s important to use gestures, facial expressions and other nonverbal cues carefully to communicate.
The Importance Of Body Language In Communication
Now that we've discussed the meaning of body language, let's look at the importance of body language in communication. Imagine a pack of chimpanzees in a forest. Although they can't speak, they use nonverbal cues and body language as their main ways of communicating.
Similarly, human beings also use body language in communication along with verbal communication. In the business world, your body language illustrates your confidence and commitment in more ways than you realize.
The importance of body language lies in the manner in which it impacts your personal brand. Whether it’s a job interview, first date or even an average day in one’s life as an employee, how one presents them is important. Positive body language suggests that one is approachable, attentive and open to new ideas and suggestions.
The use of body language in communication is often unconscious. If a person is yawning in the meeting room or tapping their fingers on the table while the boss is talking about the monthly sales goals, chances are that they will be perceived as disinterested and stressed. Improving your posture will give the impression that a person is interested and focused.
The importance of body language is not only limited to formal communication. Changing any negative nonverbal cues will increase your self-confidence and self-esteem. Once you see people responding positively to you as a friend, employee, co-worker or leader, your internal motivation will increase as well.