The impact of non-verbal communication on referent power at work.

Abstract

Verbal communication portrays the personality of the speaker which influences how other people perceive and regard the speaker. However, as majority of communication being non-verbal (Sugiharto, SH. MM, 2013; Colta, A. S., 2010), the purpose of this research is to find out its impact on the authority on other people at work. For the purpose, qualitative research approach is used by personal interviews people of varied by their age group, nationality, positions (entry-level, managerial, executive), industry, types of company (private organizations, NGO, embassy), and level of work experience. It was revealed that everyone is aware of and uses non-verbal communication for gaining charisma and authority at work. Non-verbal elements were used differently based on the audience; Serious for boss and clients, casual and friendly with colleagues, and authoritative with subordinates and vendors. The research also went on to find out the charismatic body language, way of speaking, and way of dressing perceived by entry-level, managerial, and executive level employees. KEY WORDS: Non-verbal communication, Referent power, Authority at work, and Charismatic leader