Your words only tell a fraction of history – here’s why the tone and body language really are more important

Have you ever encountered a situation where your words weren’t enough to convey the required message? Your words are not the only method to convey your message; Effective communication requires much more than words. Studies show that the words are conveyed only to 7% of messages, while the rest of 93% of the message is transmitted by the tone and the speaker’s body. This idea revolves around the famous dr. Albert Mehrabian 7-38-55 Principle. These frames explain how we convey most of the messages through non -verbal hints.

This article emphasizes various mechanisms of the 7-38-55 principle and explains oral, voice and non-verbal features of communication. You can even learn practical suggestions to enhance your vocabulary, tons and body language to change into an efficient messenger and develop deeper connections with others.

Mehrabiana’s rule 7-38-55

A well-known psychologist, Dr. Albert Mehrabian, developed the principle of 7-38-55 around 1970. He examined how people interpret ambiguous or emotionally charged messages. Mehrabian got here to the conclusion that spoken words, tons and body language are important elements of communication. According to its findings, the message is referred to mainly in the tone and body language, while the spoken words are only slight to convey the message.

A more in-depth look at the failure 7-38-55

7% oral: This applies to the actual words spoken by the speaker, regardless of whether they provide a speech, refer to someone about something, and even about something – only 7% of the influence comes from spoken words.

38% vocal: This applies to the tone of the speaker; 38% of messages are transmitted by tons, tons and tempo. The expression spoken with enthusiasm sounds true and differ from the same expression spoken with boredom or sarcasm in the voice.

55% non -verbal: Most communication, including 55% of the total message, are associated with body language. It includes facial features, gestures, attitude and eye contact with the speaker. These non -verbal hints can support or deny messages transmitted by words.

The importance and context of the rule

Using the mehrabian rule depends on the message you ought to convey. If you provide actual or instructional information, verbal content is more important. But when you ought to convey some emotions or attitudes, it is important to know how your words complement, the way you say and how you progress.

7%: Increasing verbal communication

According to the 7-38-55 principle, verbal communication is only 7% of the impact of impact, but words have a significant role. Your message is constructed and understood by your words.

Why the alternative of a word matters

Your alternative of words can encourage, condition or push. It depends on the way you select and use words. Intelligent words of words help build brightness and combination, while bad normally cause confusion or misunderstandings.

Improving verbal communication: Practical ways

1. Clarity and conciseness: Keep a brilliant and concise conversation to advertise higher understanding and commitment. Avoid using a complicated language.
2. Deliberate speaking: Think before you speak and consider the message you ought to convey. It will enable you use the right words and help people understand your point of view.
3. Eliminate the words filling: Avoid speaking useless words equivalent to “UM”, “how” and “You know etc.” Eliminating these fillers will provide your communication with greater authority and transparency.

38%: Effective voice use

According to Mehrabian, as you say that things are more important than what you say. The meaning of your words can change significantly based on the tone you utilize in your voice.

The importance of tone in communication

Tons is the central aspect of your communication. This reflects your feelings, thoughts and ideas. A flat tone may indicate indifference, while a warm, enthusiastic tone inspires interaction. This could also be a decisive factor in determining the reception of messages.

Improving vocal delivery

1. Tone fit: The content of your message should support the tons of your message.
2. Jump control: Although using a high jump can upset us, the use of a lower jump actually shows great confidence.
3. Controlled pace: Speaking too quickly or too slowly may be catastrophic. It can overwhelm the audience or bore them. Keep balance to maintain the listeners’ involvement.

55%: maximize non -verbal communication

According to the principles of Mehrabian, more than half of your impact on communication is non -verbal. Your body language, including a face expression, attitude and gestures, can convey a lot – all this affects the way your message is interpreted.

Influence of body language

Gestures do an excellent job, supporting or denying a verbal news with spoken. For example, looking at people looking for a job, if you’ll be able to’t look in your eyes or if they appear too nervous or drilled, they are immediately seen in a negative way by managers. In particular, the survey carried out by CareerBuilder showed that more than two -thirds of employers said that they’d less often consider a job candidate who is unable to keep up eye contact. Something that is very helpful in the work environment is that folks are calm and confident in their actions. But if the non -verbal communication of the candidate still does not present it, unfortunately they might be less powerful than in reality.

Strategies for improving non -verbal communication

1. Maintain eye contact: Even when maintaining a everlasting look, eye contact expresses commitment and trust. Staring may be terrifying, so avoid doing it repeatedly. Instead, use eye contact as a gesture when speaking.
2. Use the facial features: Your face gives much stronger emotions than your words.
3. Use deliberate gestures and an open position: Your words change into more significant in your gestures, but don’t abuse them. Use controlled gestures to point important points during the conversation.

Application

The Mehrabian 7-38-55 rule shows that body language and tone of voice are much more important in communication of your message than the words themselves. Adjusting these elements is crucial in negotiations, team leadership and one -on -one conversations. Learning these elements not only improves the delivery of messages, but also strengthens relationships. Paying attention to body language and tone in combination with words, you’ll be able to achieve powerful communication.