How to Read Body Language: Part Six

Combinations Substantiate Isolated Cues 
One piece of nonverbal communication out of context may not provide enough information to provide the receiver with conclusive evidence of a speaker’s intent. Evidence is significantly stronger when there are several pieces of information that complement one another.

Let’s imagine a young man courting a young woman. He comes to see her and presents her with flowers. What does he think if she simply smiles? Is she pleased? Is she simply responding that way because she thinks it’s appropriate and feels she has to? What if she also moves slightly closer to him, places her hand on his lower arm, and says, ‘Thank you.’ Body language is more convincing when more than one expression presents concurrently.

Transitions Substantiate Isolated Cues 

While individual movements or positions are not conclusive, transitions from one to another definitely direct the careful observer to meaningful conclusions.

Let’s assume two business people are engaged in an important negotiation. Throughout a meeting, they are both engaged and leaning forward as they speak with one another. At some point, one person proposes a new idea. The other responds by leaning back in his chair, raising his arms and clasping his hands behind his head. How do you think the negotiations are going? The transition from one position to another speaks volumes. #nonverbal #nonverbalcommunication #bodylanguage

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