What percentage of communication is conveyed through words alone?

The assertion that only 7% of communication is conveyed through words alone stems from research conducted by psychologist Albert Mehrabian, which suggests that when it comes to conveying feelings and attitudes, much of the message comes from non-verbal elements, such as body language and tone of voice. In his study, Mehrabian found that 93% of emotional communication is carried through non-verbal means—specifically, 38% through vocal tone and 55% through body language, leaving only 7% attributed to the actual words spoken. This insight highlights the importance of understanding that effective communication encompasses much more than just verbalization; it includes how messages are conveyed and perceived through physical presence and vocal expression. Recognizing this can greatly enhance one’s ability to communicate effectively, especially in supervisory roles where clear and empathetic interactions are crucial.