Portsmouth Business School

Thesis summary

My study focuses on a specific impression management system segment, non-verbal communication (N.V.C). N.V.C is an indicator for perception building, impressions, ability, confidence, likeability and influence (Klinzing & Gerada-Aloisio, 2004, Rejeski & Lowe, 1980, Cassell et al, 2001). Rationally, body language can be considered as a tool to build images. But how does it connect with the area of management? Many scholars agree that non-verbal communication is a critical aspect of the impression management process (Burgoon et al, 1990, Carney et al, 2007, Fukayame at al, 2002, Gardner & Martinko, 1988, Greenlees et al, 2005, Hiemstra, 1999, Hubbard, 1994, Kacmar et al, 1992, Riggio & Friedman, 1986, Simons, 1995, Zebrowitz et al, 2002). Therefore, body language can be considered a tool to  manage personal and organisational images. The way non-verbal communication can be used for  managing impressions constitutes the study's subject area. My research attempts to investigate the way non-verbal communication is expressed and the impact it has on people impressions.