What is the 7 rule body language?

7–38–55 Communication Rule. According to Prof. Albert Mehrabian… | by Resume Reach First | Medium

The 7-38-55 rule is a communication model developed by psychologist Albert Mehrabian in the 1970s. It suggests that in face-to-face interactions, the emotional content of a message is conveyed as follows:

  • 7%: Through the words we use.

  • 38%: Through our tone of voice.

  • 55%: Through body language, including facial expressions.

This model emphasizes that non-verbal cues—such as how something is said and the accompanying body language—play a more significant role than the actual words in conveying emotions and attitudes. (Wikipedia)

Important Considerations

  • Context Matters: Mehrabian's research focused specifically on situations where there is incongruence between verbal and non-verbal messages, particularly in expressing feelings or attitudes like "liking" or "disliking." (Wikipedia) The 7-38-55 rule is most applicable in such contexts.

  • Misinterpretation Risk: The model has often been misinterpreted to mean that only 7% of communication is verbal in all situations. In reality, the significance of words, tone, and body language varies depending on the context and the nature of the communication.

Practical Implications

Understanding the 7-38-55 rule can enhance communication skills:

  • Public Speaking: Pay attention to your tone and body language to engage your audience effectively.

  • Negotiations: Be aware of non-verbal cues to better understand the other party's feelings and attitudes.

  • Personal Interactions: Ensure that your non-verbal signals align with your words to convey sincerity and build trust.

In summary, while the 7-38-55 rule highlights the importance of non-verbal communication, it's essential to apply it appropriately, considering the context and the specific nature of the communication.

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