According to research, what percentage of communication is verbal?

The assertion that 7% of communication is verbal is derived from research that suggests that in face-to-face interactions, verbal communication contributes a relatively small portion of the overall message conveyance. Specifically, it indicates that the words we choose—what we say—represent only a tiny fraction of the total communication process.

The majority of communication is believed to occur through non-verbal means, including body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. These non-verbal elements significantly influence how the message is received and interpreted by others. The breakdown often cited in communication studies shows that non-verbal cues account for approximately 93% of communication: 55% from body language and 38% from tone of voice.

Understanding this breakdown is crucial for effective communication, as it highlights the importance of paying attention not only to the words being spoken but also to the accompanying non-verbal signals. This knowledge empowers individuals to enhance their communication skills by becoming more aware of and improving their non-verbal interactions.