What is Non Verbal Intelligence?

Over 80% of communication is dependent upon the unspoken vocabulary of gesture, body language or posture, facial expressions, eye contact and even the way we breathe. Speech also contains non-literal elements, such as voice quality, emotion and speaking style, as well as rhythm, intonation and stress.

These underlying but hugely influential characteristics of interpersonal dialogue are referred to as ‘non-verbal signals’. Every day, every one of us displays these non-verbal signals when we are interacting with others. This process is known as non-verbal communication.

For the vast majority of people, non-verbal communication is an unconscious, involuntary response to the spoken word, the non-verbal signals of others, the purpose or nature of the interaction and a plethora of other influencing factors. As a consequence, the full effect of our communication is left to chance, as our non-verbal signals may conflict with our spoken words. Very often, these factors result in the message being confused or even totally misunderstood.

If we can control and use non-verbal communication consciously and positively, every aspect of our interactions with others will be more rewarding, more enjoyable and more productive.

Non-Verbal Intelligence (NVI) is the science and art that enables individuals to understand, interpret, harness and employ the power of non-verbal communication.

Non-Verbal intelligence is the doorway to becoming skilled in the use of the non-verbal communication. It enables us to raise our awareness of the full armoury of resources with which we have to communicate. In this way, we become more conscious and selective in our use of non-verbal signals, so that they indeed complement and enhance the words we speak, making our communication clearer and far more impactful.

Having such skill means that we are able to operate at a much higher level. It empowers us to have greater presence, gravitas and charisma. It enables us to capture the attention of those with whom we interact.

The benefits of being skilled in non-verbal communication are many and, as well as becoming outstanding communicators ourselves, we are also able to recognise, label, predict and respond effectively and incisively to the non-verbal signals of others. All of which delivers immeasurable benefits for leaders, trainers, presenters, coaches, facilitators, teachers and anyone for whom the quality of their communication is vital.

NVI is not about the influence of power; it’s about the power of influence.

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