Understanding the 7-38-55 Rule: Ending Communication Breakdowns

“The 7-38-55 Rule”: A Simple, Practical Approach for Modern Organizations

In today’s business world, communication is no longer just about speaking or transmitting information from one party to another. It is the core of understanding, collaboration, and organizational success. Even a small miscommunication can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, or unnecessary losses.

As a fully integrated business and service leader with more than 10 subsidiary companies, S-MILES Group continues to grow across a wide range of industries. As the organization expands and its teams become increasingly diverse, clear and effective communication becomes an even more critical factor that the organization places great importance on.

One of the communication concepts that has been widely discussed and adopted by leading organizations around the world is the 7-38-55 Rule. This concept originates from research in communication psychology conducted by Dr. Albert Mehrabian, Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), in the late 1960s. The 7-38-55 Rule helps explain why, at times, what we say is not always interpreted by others in the way we intend.

What Is the 7-38-55 Rule?

The 7-38-55 Rule is a communication concept that explains the proportion of the impact of communication when conveying emotions, feelings, or attitudes. This principle divides communication into three key components:

• 7% comes from words (Words)

• 38% comes from tone of voice (Tone of Voice)

• 55% comes from body language (Body Language) 

In other words, when we communicate especially in matters related to emotions or intentions listeners do not rely solely on the spoken words. Instead, they primarily interpret the message through tone of voice and body language.

Why Is the 7-38-55 Rule Important for Large Organizations?

For an organization like S-MILES Group, which operates across multiple businesses, teams, and levels of operation, unclear communication can create a ripple effect, leading to various negative consequences.

• Errors caused by miscommunication
• Increased tension within the team
• Decreased work efficiency and productivity
• Damage to the organization’s image when communicating with clients or business partners

Understanding the 7-38-55 Rule helps both executives and employees realize that effective communication is not about being articulate, but about ensuring that the message is clearly aligned and understood.

How to Apply the 7-38-55 Rule in the Workplace

1. Choose clear words that are consistent with your tone of voice
Avoid using positive words with a negative tone. For example, when giving feedback, choose polite wording and a friendly tone to encourage openness and constructive communication.

2. Pay attention to your tone, especially in online communication
Even though body language may not be fully visible in online meetings or phone calls, tone of voice still has a significant impact. Speaking clearly, calmly, and in a friendly manner can greatly reduce misunderstandings.

3. Use body language that aligns with what you say
Maintaining eye contact, nodding, and using open body language help build credibility and trust within the team.

4. Do not rely solely on written messages for important matters
Emails and chat messages are suitable for sharing information, but discussions involving emotions, decision-making, or conflict resolution should always be handled through direct conversation.

Conclusion: Clear Communication Is the Foundation of Organizational Success

The 7-38-55 Rule does not suggest that words are unimportant. Rather, it serves as a reminder that effective communication requires alignment between words, tone of voice, and body language.

For S-MILES Group, which is committed to sustainable growth across all business sectors, fostering a culture of clear, easy-to-understand, and respectful communication is one of the key drivers that enables the organization to move forward together with stability and confidence.

When everyone within the organization understands and applies this principle, communication challenges will no longer be obstacles. Instead, they become opportunities to strengthen teamwork and enhance overall operational effectiveness.