Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication In general human beings communicate using two main forms: verbal communication and

non-verbal communication. Verbal and non-verbal communication shapes our interactions with others in business and interpersonal relationships, as well as our financial and personal success, and our physical and psychological well-being. Interpersonal communication not only involves the explicit meaning of words, that is the information or message conveyed, but also refers to implicit messages, whether intentional or not, which may be expressed through non-verbal behaviors. Verbal communication encompasses any form of communication involving words, spoken, written or signed. We use verbal communication to inform, whether it is to inform others of our needs or to impart knowledge. Verbal communication helps to clarify misunderstandings and provides missing information. It can also be used as a tool of persuasion. It creates an opportunity for debate, stimulates thought and creativity, and deepens and creates new relationships. We can use verbal communication to correct a wrong for example, the power of the words, "I'm sorry," is often more effective than an action. Verbal communication coexists alongside non-verbal communication, which can affect people's perceptions and exchanges in subtle but significant ways. Non-verbal communications include facial expressions, the tone and pitch of the voice, gestures displayed through body language and the physical distance between communicators. These non-verbal signals can give clues and additional information and meaning over and above verbal communication. For example, touch is a non-verbal communication that not only indicates a person's feelings or level of comfort, but illustrates personality characteristics as well. Edward G. Wertheim, Ph.D., in his paper, "The Importance of Effective Communication," details how non-verbal communication interacts with verbal communication. We can reinforce, contradict, substitute, complement or emphasize our verbal communication with non-verbal cues such as gestures, expressions and vocal inflection. The way we listen, look, move, and react tells the other person whether or not we care, if were being truthful, and how well were listening. When our nonverbal signals match up with the words were saying, they increase trust, clarity, and rapport. When they dont, they generate te nsion, mistrust, and confusion. Hence to become a better communicator, its important to become more sensitive not only to the body language and nonverbal cues of others, but also to our own. Nonverbal communication cues can play five roles: Repetition: They can repeat the message the person is making verbally.

Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication Contradiction: They can contradict a message the individual is trying to convey. Substitution: They can substitute for a verbal message. For example, a person's eyes can often convey a far more vivid message than words do. Complementing: They may add to or complement a verbal message. A boss who pats a person on the back in addition to giving praise can increase the impact of the message. Accenting: They may accent or underline a verbal message. Pounding the table, for example, can underline a message. Thus Verbal and nonverbal communication are part of the complete interaction process and they are inseparable. Reference: Article on The Importance of Effective Communication, Edward G. Wertheim, Ph.D. http://www.helpguide.org/mental/eq6_nonverbal_communication.htm http://www.livestrong.com/article/156961-the-importance-of-verbal-non-verbalcommunication/