Are your words and your body telling the same story? Discover the impact that nonverbal behavior has on communication
Much of a message’s meaning comes through what’s not being said. To master the art of clear communication, you need to be able to read others’ body language and remain mindful of the messages your own gestures, movements, and facial expressions are sending. Body Language For Dummies shows you how to interpret nonverbal cues at work and in your personal life. With the help of this easy-to-follow Dummies guide, you can navigate the gap between words and meaning–even in multicultural settings. Plus, this updated edition goes virtual, with new insights demonstrating the significance of facial expressions and body language in online vs. in-person meetings.
* Gain insight into other people’s thoughts, feelings, and intentions
* Develop an awareness of how your body language influences others’ opinions
* Make the camera your friend during virtual meetings
* Learn tips and tricks to uncover people’s real attitudes and motivations
If you want to better understand others and improve your own communication skills (and who doesn’t?), this is the Dummies book for you.
Table of Content
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting Started with Body Language 7
Chapter 1: Exploring the Fundamentals of Body Language 9
Chapter 2: Looking Closer at Nonverbal Behavior 33
Part 2: Starting at the Top 47
Chapter 3: Heading to the Heart of the Matter 49
Chapter 4: Watching Facial Expressions 65
Chapter 5: Eyeing the Situation 81
Chapter 6: Mastering Lip Reading 99
Part 3: Letting the Limbs Do the Talking 115
Chapter 7: Taking It from the Torso 117
Chapter 8: Arming Yourself 137
Chapter 9: Letting Your Hands Do the Talking 153
Chapter 10: Standing Your Ground 175
Chapter 11: Playing with Props 187
Part 4: Putting the Body into Social and Business Context 199
Chapter 12: Being Aware of Space and Distance 201
Chapter 13: Rating, Dating, and Mating: Sensual and Sexual Body Language 219
Chapter 14: Interviewing, Influencing, and Playing Politics 237
Chapter 15: Crossing the Cultural Divide 257
Chapter 16: Communicating in Challenging Circumstances 275
Part 5: The Part of Tens 289
Chapter 17: Ten Ways to Read Other People 291
Chapter 18: Ten Ways to Demonstrate Confidence 299
Chapter 19: Ten Ways to Improve Your Nonverbal Communication 305
Index 313
About the author
Elizabeth Kuhnke is the founder of Kuhnke Communication, which specializes in interpersonal communication. Elizabeth runs workshops, training courses, and coaching programs as well as speaking at business conferences and international events. She is the author of Body Language: Learn How to Read Others and Communicate with Confidence and Communication Skills For Dummies.