When Words Aren’t Enough…

Sometimes you can communicate a great deal without even using words.

If you’re giving a speech to an audience, for example, or just having a casual conversation with a friend, you may want use your hands or another part of your body, such as your head, to drive home an important point.

Some of the most common gestures that Americans use in daily life include giving someone a “thumbs-up” or “thumbs-down” sign or a “high-five.” Nodding one’s head in agreement is another widely used form of nonverbal communication.

It’s important to remember, though, that certain gestures that are well known in the United States may have different meanings in other parts of the world. If an American gives another person a thumbs-up sign, for example, this will likely signify approval. In other areas of the world, such as Thailand and parts of the Middle East, this same gesture is sometimes used in a disrespectful manner or as a form of mockery.

So if you are inclined to gesticulate (see definition below) when communicating with someone from another country, just make sure that your gesture means the same thing to both of you!

Speak your mind: What gestures do you find to be the most effective when you are communicating an important message?

GESTICULATE: To use gestures for emphasis, especially when speaking.