Online courses in body language can help jobseekers

Online courses in body language can help jobseekers

Business students at campus-based or online universities may want to consider taking courses in nonverbal communication, as new research suggests knowledge of this subject may prove beneficial to professionals in many fields.

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) recently discovered that body language may serve as the clearest form of communication, the Portland Business Journal reports.

Albert Mehrabian, the UCLA professor who led the study, found that words account for 7 percent of an individual's communication and speech compose 38 percent.

However, the scientists reported that 55 percent of communication from respondents was conveyed through body language.

Furthermore, Mehrabian suggested that facial expression or tone of voice are often more powerful communication devices than words or speech.

Consequently, professionals who have been trained to read and convey nonverbal communication may be more likely to have better relations with their coworkers, supervisors and clients, according to the media outlet.

During the interview process, eye behavior can serve as a form of communication, as gazing could indicate to prospective employers that a candidate is not interested, Chicago Now reports.

Individuals who are pursuing business degrees may consider enrolling in courses at campus-based or online colleges that may help them better understand and utilize different forms of communication.