A Fun Guide to Nonverbal Communication and Body Language

Summary

Dr. York, a communication expert, explores the power of nonverbal communication in this engaging presentation. He highlights how gestures, handshakes, eye contact, and even clothing convey much more than words. Dr. York provides actionable tips on improving communication, such as mastering handshakes, using body language to enhance confidence, and detecting lies through micro-expressions. He also explains how posture and facial expressions can impact memory recall and stress levels, offering practical advice like the 'Superman pose' to boost confidence. Ultimately, Dr. York emphasizes that every action communicates something to those around us, often more than words alone.

Takeaways

• 😀 Only 7% of communication is verbal, while 93% is nonverbal, including gestures and body language.
• 🤝 A good handshake requires standing up, being firm (but not too strong), and shaking hands the same way regardless of gender.
• 📸 For photos, ensure your hand is on top during a handshake if you want to look more powerful and authoritative.
• 🎩 When dressing for an interview, choose traditional colors like blues, blacks, grays, and avoid distracting neon colors.
• 👁️‍🗨️ To show engagement in a conversation, make eye contact 60-70% of the time when speaking and 90% when listening.
• ⚖️ Nonverbal communication can be used to detect lies, by observing behaviors such as excessive eye contact or defensive body language.
• 💡 Understanding baseline behaviors is crucial before interpreting someone's body language, as nervous energy can mimic lying.
• 👨‍🏫 There are seven universal microexpressions that all people share, no matter their cultural background.
• ✋ Nonverbal communication can boost memory recall by 22%, such as maintaining good posture and removing barriers during conversation.
• 💪 Practicing the Superman pose for just 2 minutes can increase confidence by boosting testosterone levels and reducing cortisol (stress).
• 🦸‍♂️ Performing nonverbal actions like the Superman pose can help you combat stress and increase your personal confidence on a daily basis.

Q & A

What percentage of communication is nonverbal?

93% of communication is nonverbal, with only 7% being conveyed through words.

What is the most open gesture in nonverbal communication?

The most open gesture is showing the palms of your hands.

What are the key rules for a proper handshake?

1. Always stand up to shake someone's hand. 2. Don't give a bone-crushing handshake. 3. Avoid giving a weak handshake. Additionally, be sure to shake a woman's hand the same way as a man's.

How can positioning during a handshake affect the impression?

If you're on the left side of the camera, placing your hand on top of the other person’s during a handshake can make you appear more powerful in photos. If you’re on the wrong side, you can use defensive techniques like the 'wrap' or pulling the person toward yourself to prevent anyone from having the top hand.

What clothing choices are recommended for a professional setting?

It is recommended to wear traditional clothing such as blues, blacks, and grays, with a pop of red. Avoid neon colors, like neon green, especially during job interviews, as they can distract the interviewer from what you're saying.

How can eye contact affect communication?

When speaking to someone, maintain eye contact about 60-70% of the time. When listening, increase eye contact to 90% to show engagement and interest. Avoid looking around the room or appearing distracted.

What are some nonverbal signs that might indicate someone is lying?

Signs of lying can include too much eye contact, hiding behind barriers, or stiff body movements. However, it's important to establish a baseline for the individual’s typical behavior to differentiate between nervousness and deception.

What are universal microexpressions, and how are they related to communication?

Universal microexpressions are facial expressions that everyone, regardless of cultural background, exhibits. There are seven common microexpressions, and they can provide insight into a person's feelings or reactions during communication.

What is a useful tip for increasing engagement during a job interview or on camera?

One helpful technique is to imagine that the back half of your chair is 'lava,' which will encourage you to sit up straight or lean forward, showing that you’re engaged and confident.

How can nonverbal communication increase confidence?

One way to boost confidence is by practicing the Superman pose. By standing in this pose for just 2 minutes, your testosterone levels increase, while cortisol levels decrease, reducing stress and boosting confidence.