BUT WHAT DO I SAY If you are most concerned about what to…
““ BUT WHAT DO I SAY If you are most concerned about what to say when you first meet someone, you may be directing your attention to the wrong place. Only 7 percent of the message that people receive from you comes from the actual words you say. Your tone of voice accounts for 38 percent of the impression you make, and your nonverbal communication or body language accounts for another full 55 percent! Later in this chapter, we explore how to get beyond those first few seconds of the first impression—when body language is almost everything—into an actual conversation.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
First impressions rely more on tone and body language than on spoken words, so focusing on non‑verbal cues is essential for effective interaction.
In simple terms: Non‑verbal cues dominate early impressions.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize tone and body language.
Themes
communication
first impressions
nonverbal
tone
body language
Mood
aware
analytical
Type
advice
insightful
When to use this quote
- networking events
- job interviews
- first dates
- public speaking
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you improve your tone?
- What body language signals do you send?
A Different Perspective
Words still matter later; over‑reliance on non‑verbal can mislead.