Body Language as an Essential

Element of Communication Skills

 Body Language

Body language is the quiet, secret and most powerful language

of all!

According to experts, our non-verbal language communicates

about 50% of what we really mean (voice tonality contributes
38%) while Words themselves contribute a mere 7%.

Our bodies send out messages constantly and often we don't

recognize that we're communicating a lot more than we realize.
By familiarizing ourselves with a few basic nonverbal signals, we
can improve our ability to understand what people are really
communicating and become aware of what we are broadcasting
to the world with our own non verbal cues.

A person's body posture, movements and positions more often

tell us exactly what they mean (which may be the exact opposite
of what they are saying). Many people are unaware of how
loudly they communicate with their bodies.
 Non Verbal Communication

Non Verbal Communication is usually understood as the process

of sending and receiving wordless messages.

Such messages can be Communicated through gesture; body

language or posture; facial expression.

The first gesture that we have picked to talk on are

‘HANDSHAKES’
 Handshakes
Handshake is a short ritual in which two people grasp their right
or left hands, often accompanied by a brief shake of the grasped
hands. It is commonly done upon meeting, departing, offering
congratulations, or completing an agreement.

Its purpose is to demonstrate good will, and possibly originated

as a gesture showing that the hand holds no weapon.
 Some Types of Handshakes
Knuckle Cruncher
This portrays that the person is earnest but nervous.  While
meaning to convey warmth through a tight grip of his/her
hand, the person only causes you pain.  The impression
created is definitely that of a person who lacks sensitivity.
 Some Types of Handshakes
Dead Fish Handshaker
People, who places a limp, lifeless hand in yours, is sending a
negative message. While the knuckle cruncher hurts you, at
least there is a desire to express a real feeling.  You are left
with the impression of this person having a dull personality.
 Some Types of Handshakes
Pumper
The person doesn’t know when to quit, almost as if stalling
because of not knowing what to do next.  They keep on
vigorously pumping your hand up and down—and with it your
entire arm.  You may not feel pain but you certainly feel
foolish. This handshake portrays that the person is overly
eager but also insecure. 
 Some Types of Handshakes
Sanitary Handshaker
Handshake where the person barely puts three or four fingers
in your hand—and then withdraw them quickly, almost as if
afraid of catching a dread disease.  They appear timid and
sheepish.

The wet handshake:

Clammy and damp, the person is nervous and insecure.
 Some Types of Handshakes
Condolence Handshaker
The person who comes across as too familiar, clasping your
right arm or hand, and perhaps attempting to hug you.  This
behavior may be appreciated at a funeral, but it comes across
as snobbish and inappropriate.
 Proper Handshaking

The protocol for handshaking is simple to learn.  Walk up to the

person you want to meet.  Look into their eyes, smile, and extend
you hand.  Offer a warm, firm, palm-to-palm handshake.

When you offer your hand to a stranger or a distant acquaintance,

simultaneously say, “My name is....(use both first and last names).
This way you eliminate the awkward moment of the forgotten name. 
The person being greeted is often relieved at being reminded, and
will usually respond with their full name, which will in turn relieve
you.
 Whenever you extend your hand, there are three ways of doing
it.
Palm down (you are the one offering it)
If you feel strong and think you "Hold the Whole World in your Hand" you
automatically will offer your hand palm down. This forces the other person to
offer palm up, and he or he can feel in a "underdog" position. Not very pleasant.

Palm vertical (let's work together)

The most generous way to offer a handshake is palm vertical. It sends the
signal of cooperation. "I want to work with you."

Palm up (I am fully at your service)

Salespeople often offer a handshake palm up. This is a subtle way of indicating
the "at-your-service", aspect of doing business. It says that you, are in charge.

To further emphasize the "I'm at your service, and you, my customer, are truly in
charge" aspect, extend your hand vertically, and slowly turn it till your hand is palm
up, and the other's is palm down.
Both men and women should rise to shake hands.  Rising is a
compliment; it shows energy and eagerness to connect.

Initiating a proper handshake will make an incredibly positive

impression.  You will be perceived as a person who is
knowledgeable, possesses excellent social skills, and has
leadership capabilities.

An excellent handshake shows your charm and self-

confidence.  It becomes an integral part of your style.
Watch out how you shake hands till
we come again with more tips on
non-verbal communication