The Spoken Word Has Its Limitations

Language is a gift that humans have, and it allows us to share our experiences, feelings, and thoughts with others. It has also been an effective method of teaching and communication.

Research has shown, however, that our understanding of others is limited to only 10 percent through the spoken word. When speaking to others or listening to others, the tone of voice accounts for almost 40 percent of the message that is actually conveyed or received. Which leaves almost 50 percent for things like visual communication, eye contact and more important, body language. These factors, tone, eye contact, and body language often act as communication tools, even when the actual words are not understood, because they are spoken in a language you are not familiar with. Basic information can become effective communication through just pointing, gestures and facial expressions.

Even when we listen to speakers on public platforms, people with the right diction, the relevant tone, and a proper posture are likely to be able to get their message across to an audience far more effectively. Ideas may be interesting or information may be critical, but the message will reach its desired audience fat more effectively if the body and voice of the speaker demand the right attention.

Confidence is another aspect that can act as an effective communicator. An effective communicator is one who shows through his or her body language, voice, and general demeanor, that they firmly believe what they are saying, and this does make an impression on the audience. To many people, such abilities come naturally, while to others it comes after practice and constantly learning from earlier experiences. Speakers to be effective must understand human nature, the art of non-verbal communication and it is only then that they will find language an effective tool for communication.