Topic > The importance of non-verbal communication: actions speak louder than words

Communication plays an important role in people's lives. The great progress of humanity in all areas is the result of harmonious communication. Sharing and receiving knowledge and information have given way to planning, creating and maintaining things individually and in groups. In short, communication plays a significant role in the evolution of the world. Humans communicate verbally (using sounds and words) or nonverbally (without the use of spoken language), and can do a combination of both. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Nonverbal communication is significant, whether it is done consciously or not. According to Barry, Lewick, and Saunders in their paper “Essentials of Negotiation,” participation behavior (any behavior involved in listening) as a nonverbal communication approach affects how you connect with others. These behaviors let others know you're listening and help them receive your message. However, conflicts can arise due to misunderstandings especially when no words are spoken to clarify and explain the true meaning of a person's actions. Nonverbal behavior includes all communicative acts except language (Mandal, 2014). Body language, clothing and appearance, voice, space and distance, color, time and touch are aspects of nonverbal communication. These signals express a person's feelings, intentions and even leave an impression on him. It is human nature to make decisions quickly, based on a subconscious impression of a person's physical appearance and actions. For example, an applicant with good posture, appropriate clothing, a loud and clear voice and who maintains eye contact can be interpreted as an intelligent and confident individual. He/she might get positive feedback from employers. Another example on political communication suggests that a person's physical traits such as attractiveness and competent appearance play a role in success in attracting votes and political support (Lausten and Petersen, 2015). Given the significant impact of non-verbal communication, you need to be sensitive and aware of your actions, because people's actions are stronger than the words they say. For example, yawning in front of the speaker may indicate disinterest in listening and may insult the speaker. Even if the person is simply tired but still attentive, the speaker who sees the action will still feel disrespected since the person who performed the action has the only absolute knowledge of their behavior. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay As seen from the essay, the importance and effects of nonverbal communication are evident in our daily lives. These cause peace and harmony with others and conflict when neglected. Therefore, humans as communicative beings must consider nonverbal communication as equally important as verbal communication. As the quote says: “Actions speak louder than words.”