132 W H A T EVERY BODY IS SAYING
SOME CONCLUDING REMARKS ABOUT
NONVERBALS OF THE ARMSOur arms can transmit a lot of information in decoding the intentions
and sentiments of others. From my perspective, one of the best ways to
establish rapport with someone is to touch that person on the arm, some-
where between the elbow and the shoulder. Of course, it is always wise to
assess the person’s personal and cultural preferences before you proceed.
Generally, however, the brief touch I have just described is usually a good
and safe place to initiate human contact and to let others know you are
getting along. In the Mediterranean, South American, and Arab worlds,
touching is an important component of communication and social har-
mony. Don’t be shocked, startled, or threatened as you travel if people
touch you on the arm (assuming they do so appropriately, as I have de-
scribed). It’s their powerful way of saying, “We are OK.” In fact, since
human touch is so intimately involved in communication, when there is
no touching between people, you should be concerned and wonder why.