Final answer:
Research indicates that a significant portion of communication in face-to-face interactions is nonverbal. These nonverbal cues, which include body language, gestures, and facial expressions, vary culturally and are essential for conveying and interpreting information, especially in diverse environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most research suggests that a significant percentage of what is communicated between people during face-to-face meetings is conveyed through entirely nonverbal cues. Although the exact percentage is not provided in the provided references, many studies indicate that a substantial part of our communication is nonverbal. This nonverbal communication, also known as body language, includes gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact. These elements are essential as people rely on them, along with cultural norms and practices, to interpret non-spoken signals. These nonverbal signals, learned through one's culture, can be nearly universal or can differ significantly across cultures, as highlighted by contrasting interpretations of gestures like a smile or thumbs-up around the world.
It's vital to use nonverbal communication purposefully in presentations to avoid distracting from the content. Practicing in front of a mirror can help in planning and controlling these physical delivery aspects. Moreover, understanding these cross-cultural differences in nonverbal communication is crucial in diverse workplaces to avoid misinterpretations and foster better interpersonal relationships.