THE POWER OF NON-VERBAL LANGUAGE

When we think of communication, we automatically think of doing so through the use of the written or spoken language. However, it is a well-known fact that approximately 93% of our communication is through non-verbal means.

As visual creatures we process visual information much faster than any other form of communication. This includes both the sending and receiving of messages. Yet we go through life ignorant of the fact that we are constantly communicating with others in visual form.

We erroneously assume that if we do not utter any words, we are invisible to the world out there. Wrong! We are continuously sending messages through our body language, facial and eye expressions and powerfully, through the clothes we wear. As a stylist, the latter is of importance to me and ensuring this message is also understood by my clients.

The adage that a picture tells a thousand words comes to mind. However, each one of us will select different images with which to communicate, reflecting our personal style and preferences. Visual images are very powerful tools in capturing attention and evoking emotions yet being ignorant we may very well be sending out the wrong messages.

Furthermore, the messages we send out through our appearance may contradict the verbal communications we then use subsequently. The result may very well be mixed messages that serves to confuse those we communicate with.

Clothing has the power to communicate so much more about us than our words. It includes our culture, moods, level of confidence, interests, authority, values and so much more. Our dress includes not only the clothes we wear, but our accessories as well. Different items of clothing will communicate different messages in different settings.

It is up to each one of us to become proficient in the visual language of communication and use it consciously to our advantage.

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