When I began my career in learning and development, one of the first “truths” I absorbed was that body language accounts for the majority of communication, with tone and words trailing behind.
Remember it?
The age old Albert Mehrabian model that suggests 38% of communication impact comes from tone of voice and 55% from body language, while only 7% comes from the actual words spoken (known as Mehrabian’s 7-38-55 Rule.)
Being in the business of words, I have disagreed to a large extent that words have so little power. I truly believe they hold WAY more power than this.
However!
Like many, I repeated that formula without question.
And as I progressed, through delivering corporate training, speaking on stages, curating and coaching for TEDx and working with leaders, I discovered something even more powerful: visual storytelling.
I’ve recorded a quick sound bite where I explore how gestures, movement, and facial expression can 10x the impact of your message.
We’re hardwired to respond to visuals. Our ancestors relied on visual cues for survival, and our brains are still operating with that ancient software.
Research backs this up: pairing words with gestures can improve retention by up to 60%.
Imagine physically mapping out the past, present, and future across the stage…
Or shaping an idea in the air so your audience doesn’t just hear it—they feel it and SEE it.
Leaders, this isn’t about being theatrical. It’s about being intentional.
The goal of any communication, especially keynotes and presentations, is to move people to action.
Visual storytelling makes it powerful.
Listen to the full episode here → https://podfollow.com/words-that-change-lives
Or if you prefer to watch and listen, check out the YouTube video here
Want practical support? Send me an email hello@helenpackham.com I work 1:1 with leaders to bring their message to life through powerful delivery and currently have some spots open to work with visionary experts who want to up their communication game.
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