Body language plays a big role in intuition as it gives us messages about other person that we can interpret at an intuitive level. We are alwayscommunicating verbally and nonverbally.

To make a good impression, it is important to understand that you are always communicating through body language, whether it is intentional or not. Studies done in field indicate that:

•55% of communication consists of body language, •38% is expressed through tone of voice (paralanguage) and only •7% is communicated through words. (1)

As a writer, you can use body language of your character to convey a great deal of information.

There are four types of body language to be aware of: facial expression, including eye contact, gestures, posture and space relationship.

1. Facial Expressions including eye contact - “Darwin believed that facial expressions of emotion are similar among humans, regardless of culture.” However, researchers now believe “our non verbal language is partly instinctive, partly taught and partly imitative.” (1) There are some universal facial expressions; a smile, a frown, a scowl, however, there are many more nonverbal messages that are learned and may be unique to specific cultures.

Eye contact is direct and powerful. The eyes are always talking. A poet and writer of 19th-century France wrote, ‘Eyes are so transparent, that through them, one sees soul.’ Nothing builds trust and rapport as effectively as eye contact. (2) The use of eye contact varies significantly from culture to culture. In some regions, direct eye contact may be considered insulting or challenging. In United States, direct eye contact is often considered a sign of trustworthiness. So, if your character is American, regular, attentive eye contact would convey honesty, straight forwardness and/or approachability. However, a hard, unblinking stare will send a much different message.

Outlined below are typical issues covered in editorial guidelines along with their definitions and any additional information you should know.

Length of article: The minimum and maximum word count of articles considered for publication. Online articles are usually expected to be 750 to 1,000 words while off-line publications will often accept a longer article.

Topics: The subjects of articles accepted by publication. Never submit an off topic article as this is very annoying and may result in further submissions from you being banned.

Illustrations/Photographs: Some publications require/accept illustrations or photographs and will usually specify size and format required for acceptance.

Editorial style: Consistency and accuracy governs use of a style selected by editorial department of a publication. Many publications require use of Associated Press Stylebook which covers spelling, capitalization, grammar, punctuation and usage.

Author Photograph: Some publications require or accept a photograph of author usually included with submission of article. Guidelines will often cover size and format of photographs.

Byline length: Also known as an author biography or resource box. Some publications have certain requirements for length, characters per line and what or how much contact information can be included.