IN the age of globalization, our cultural environment is changing and becoming more diversified. Hence, the main objective of this series is to encourage intercultural dialogue to enable us to live together peacefully and constructively. According to Albert Mehrabian, only 7 percent of communication is perceived through the actual words themselves, 38 percent of which from tone of voice and the remaining 55 percent from body language.
Despite this rule, it is a well-known fact that body language has a greater effect on others than the actual words said. In other words, actions speak louder than words. Body language is an acknowledged valuable means used by the person to carry out the dialogue to get to know the ‘other’s’ personality and attitude in order to have an open dialogue.
To understand and optimize body language, you need to realize the following:
Interpersonal space: refers to the psychological "bubble” we imagine exists when someone is standing too close to us. The distance ranges from 15-45 cm. This is an intimate distance and approaching it results in the increase of the heart beat, adrenaline level in blood and the flow of blood to the brain, often resulting in an uncomfortable feeling.
Handshaking style: the ritual of palms movement is rich with symbolic significance. It is one of the most powerful non-verbal signals.
Understanding the art of communication
