The Importance Of Interpersonal Communication

Human beings are capable of communicating with one another without even opening our mouths to speak. Although it would make sense to think there was only one way of communicating, by doing so “verbally”, that is only part of the various ways of communicating. This is called Interpersonal Communication. Interpersonal Communication happens when you are indeed communicating with people, whether it is several at one time, or one on one. Verbal, Written, Eye Contact, Posture, Gestures and Body Language are just some of the ways interpersonal communication takes place. We react when communicating with others from the non-verbal cues that the other person gives. Even though someone may say one thing, they communicate something very different through their vocal intonation and body language. These mixed signals force the receiver to choose between the verbal and nonverbal parts of the message. Most often, we (as the receiver) choose the nonverbal aspects. Mixed messages create tension and distrust because the receiver senses that the communicator is hiding something or is being less than candid. (Wertheim) Communication begins as soon as face-to-face contact is made, or looks are exchanged. They are signals. Even without uttering a word, communication can be misinterpreted and lost, causing tension. Facial and body gestures are an important way of communication when interacting with people or groups because the way you listen, look, move, and react tells the other person whether