Everyday Signs and Signals

Abstract

As well as the thoroughly investigated cues and channels discussed in the previous chapter, there are many other nonverbal cues we use to communicate from day to day in our working lives. In this chapter we shall consider briefly three of these: physical appearance, dress, and color. Each has clear analogies in the animal world. For many animals there is a clear correlation between their physical features and strength or reproductive success; nearly all animals — for example, peacocks — send signals using special feathers and markings; and most have a purposeful coloring.