Why is Non-verbal Communication Important?

Why is Non-verbal Communication Important?
Communication is very important as people spend about 75 % of their waking hours communicating of which about 80 % happens non-verbally by understanding and sending non-verbal cues. Failure to act or silence is also a way of communication, but the only difference is that results you get are not as you intend. Actions are not always so parallel to words spoken.
Thoughts, ideas, emotions and feelings are shared by people with expressions and movements. Even environmental factors can be taken as non-verbal communication. Wordless communications are mostly true and are not faked. Verbal and non-verbal communication occur simultaneously.
People interpret messages according how you react, listen, look, etc. at the time of communicating. Things like if you care for something or not and if you are reacting as required or not. When verbal and non-verbal signals do not match, it creates distrust, unclear message, misunderstandings and confusion.
Convey empathy and emotions
Non-verbal communication is used to show emotions like happiness, anger, sadness, interest, curiosity, hurt, annoyance, anxiety, embarrassment, pleasure, hope, etc. People show these emotions unconsciously most of the times.

They express their empathy through non-verbal communication too. People do not unconsciously fake non-verbal communication but only sometimes do it deliberately. When you communicate, you must compliment what you say with your gestures and body language. You should also work to notice the non-verbal cues of the people you are interacting with.
Proper interpretation
Interpretation of non-verbal signals us not very easy at all times as it differs from person to person and culture to culture as well as non-verbal communication does not have fixed meanings and is different according to contexts.

But noticing and interpreting it properly gives you an advantage over the other person. We learn to do it since childhood and we try to interpret consciously when we need it. Misinterpretations can destroy relationships and creates problems.
Instinctive nature
As non-verbal communication is based on instinct mostly, people speak truth. We should believe non-verbal massages more than verbal messages if there is a conflict between two people. They show non-verbal cues as an instinct and accompany verbal communication.

Non-verbal communications are mostly natural like crying or laughing or having a personal space. Not only humans, some animals also show this kind of behavior.
Workplace Efficiency
Non-verbal communication makes work in offices better. It can also help in interviews and businesses. Many other professions like teachers, journalists, lawyers, doctors, etc. need to communicate in regular basis.

If their non-verbal communication is not up to the mark, then their work will suffer. For example, eye contact in interviews and meetings show confidence and interest. While eye contact shows those things, it can also show over confidence. It also shows trustworthiness and accuracy of intentions.
Understanding
Non-verbal communication increases understanding of messages. When verbal and nonverbal communication are similar, it establishes better perspective on the message being sent. The sender of message as well as receiver gets what is the intended meaning of the message and can act accordingly. Process of sending and receiving of message is successful and gets desired results.

DEFINE Non-Verbal Communication

Non-Verbal Communication
When we talk about ‘communication’, we often mean ‘what we say’: the words that we use. However, interpersonal communication is much more than the explicit meaning of words, and the information or message that they convey. It also includes implicit messages, whether intentional or not, which are expressed through non-verbal behaviours.
Non-verbal communication includes facial expressions, the tone and pitch of the voice, gestures displayed through body language (kinesics) and the physical distance between the communicators (proxemics).
These non-verbal signals can give clues and additional information and meaning over and above spoken (verbal) communication. Indeed, some estimates suggest that around 70 to 80% of communication is non-verbal!
Using Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication helps people to:
1.Reinforce or modify what is said in words.
For example, people may nod their heads vigorously when saying “Yes” to emphasise that they agree with the other person. A shrug of the shoulders and a sad expression when saying “I’m fine, thanks” may actually imply that things are not really fine at all!
2.Convey information about their emotional state.
Your facial expression, your tone of voice, and your body language can often tell people exactly how you feel, even if you have hardly said a word. Consider how often you have said to someone,
“Are you OK? You look a bit down.”
We know how people feel from their non-verbal communication.
3.Define or reinforce the relationship between people.
If you have ever watched a couple sitting talking, you may have noticed that they tend to ‘mirror’ each other’s body language. They hold their hands in similar positions, they smile at the same time, and they turn to face each other more fully. These movements reinforce their relationship: they build on their rapport, and help them to feel more connected.
4.Provide feedback to the other person.
Smiles and nods tell someone that you are listening and that you agree with what they are saying. Movement and hand gestures may indicate that you wish to speak. These subtle signals give information gently but clearly.
5.Regulate the flow of communication
There are a number of signals that we use to tell people that we have finished speaking, or that we wish to speak. An emphatic nod, and firm closing of the lips indicates that we have nothing more to say, for example. Making eye contact with the chair of a meeting and nodding slightly will indicate that you wish to speak.

1.Types of nonverbal communication

Types of nonverbal communication
The many different types of nonverbal communication or body language include:
Facial expressions.
 The human face is extremely expressive, able to convey countless emotions without saying a word. And unlike some forms of nonverbal communication, facial expressions are universal. The facial expressions for happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust are the same across cultures.
Body movement and posture.
Consider how your perceptions of people are affected by the way they sit, walk, stand, or hold their head. The way you move and carry yourself communicates a wealth of information to the world. This type of nonverbal communication includes your posture, bearing, stance, and the subtle movements you make.
Gestures.
 Gestures are woven into the fabric of our daily lives. You may wave, point, beckon, or use your hands when arguing or speaking animatedly, often expressing yourself with gestures without thinking. However, the meaning of some gestures can be very different across cultures. While the OK sign made with the hand, for example, conveys a positive message in English-speaking countries, it’s consider offensive in countries such as Germany, Russia, and Brazil. So, it’s important to be careful of how you use gestures to avoid misinterpretation.
Eye contact.
 Since the visual sense is dominant for most people, eye contact is an especially important type of nonverbal communication. The way you look at someone can communicate many things, including interest, affection, hostility, or attraction. Eye contact is also important in maintaining the flow of conversation and for gauging the other person’s interest and response.
Touch.
We communicate a great deal through touch. Think about the very different messages given by a weak handshake, a warm bear hug, a patronizing pat on the head, or a controlling grip on the arm, for example.
Space
Have you ever felt uncomfortable during a conversation because the other person was standing too close and invading your space? We all have a need for physical space, although that need differs depending on the culture, the situation, and the closeness of the relationship. You can use physical space to communicate many different nonverbal messages, including signals of intimacy and affection, aggression or dominance.
Voice.
 It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it. When you speak, other people “read” your voice in addition to listening to your words. Things they pay attention to include your timing and pace, how loud you speak, your tone and inflection, and sounds that convey understanding, such as “ahh” and “uh-huh.” Think about how your tone of voice can indicate sarcasm, anger, affection, or confidence.

Rights and Duties of a Taxpayer

Rights and Duties of a Taxpayer
A taxpayer has the following  rights :

1. Tax installment payment
- For personal income tax, a taxpayer can pay any tax amount which exceeds 3000 baht in up to three installments without paying fines or surcharges.

- A taxpayer can file a request for an installment payment of tax arrears.  However, such payment must meet the requirements set by the Revenue Department

2. Appeal in dispute of tax assessment
In the case where a taxpayer disagrees with the assessment made by the assessment officer, he has the right to appeal to the Commission of Appeals (in the form P.S.6) within 30 days starting from the day which an assessment notice has been received.

Should a taxpayer disagree with the ruling of the Commission of Appeals, he has the right to appeal within 30 days starting from the day the ruling of the Commission of Appeals has been received.  Should he fail to appeal within 30 days, he no longer has the right to appeal and must pay the whole amount of tax, fine and surcharge.

3. Deferral of tax payment by using collateral for tax arrears
The right to appeal is not a deferral of tax payment.

A taxpayer who receives a tax assessment notice must pay tax on time as stated in the assessment notice.  However, should he wish to wait for the hearing or decision of the Commission of Appeals, he has the right to defer tax payment by providing various securities as collateral in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Revenue Department.

4. Application for exemption or reduction of fine and surcharge
A taxpayer has the duty to file his tax return and pay proper taxes on time.  Should he fail to do so, he will be subject to fine and surcharge on top of the tax due.  However, on some special grounds he may request for exemption or reduction of fine.  A tax officer does not have the power under any law to exempt or reduce surcharge.  Only in the case where the Director-General grants an extension of the time period of tax payment or remittance and such tax has been paid or remitted within the extended time period, then the surcharge may be reduced to 50% thereof.

5. Access to documents
A taxpayer has the right to make a copy of his documents relevant to his past tax payment record (tax returns and receipt).

A taxpayer has the following duties : 
 File tax returns and pay proper tax. Register for tax identification number.  A taxpayer must also notify the Revenue Department officers of any changes in his particular details Provide relevant documents and accounts as the law requires.  This includes receipt, profit and loss statement. Balance sheet, special account, etc. Cooperate and assist the Revenue Department officers and provide additional documents or information when required as well as comply with the summon.  Pay tax as assessed by the Revenue Department officers on time.  Should a taxpayer fail to pay a complete sum, the assessment officer has the right to seize, attach and sell that asset by auction even without a court decision.  Cash raised from the transaction will be used to pay off tax arrears. Non-compliance with tax law.   Anyone who does not comply with the law will face civil and criminal action.  

RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES OF TAXPAYER

RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES OF TAXPAYERS-1

10 Taxpayer Rights: In her report, Olson would like for Congress to organize taxpayer rights under 10 broad principles.
They are:
The right to be informed.
The right to be assisted.
The right to be heard.
The right to pay no more than
the correct amount of tax.
The right of appeal.
The right to certainty.
The right to privacy.
The right to confidentiality.
The right to representation.
The right to a fair and just tax system.
Taxpayer Responsibilities: Meanwhile, Olson doesn't let taxpayers off the hook.

So that taxpayers understand what the law requires of them, the National Taxpayer Advocate recommends in her latest report that Congress organize taxpayer responsibilities under the following five principles:

Obligation to be honest.
Obligation to be cooperative.
Obligation to provide accurate information
and documents on time.
Obligation to keep records.
Obligation to pay taxes on time.
The report also summarizes prior year recommendations by Olson to create additional taxpayer rights and recommends that those rights be incorporated into Taxpayer Bill of Rights legislation.
"It has been 13½ years since we have had major taxpayer rights legislation," Olson wrote.  "Our laws have not kept pace with our notions of procedural fairness in 21st century tax administration, particularly given our tax system's expanded and diverse taxpayer base and duties."
RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES OF TAXPAYERS-2
All Taxpayers have rights and responsibilities. Knowing these rights and responsibilities is important for both Taxpayers and the Liberia Revenue Authority.

To these rights are also responsibilities which the taxpayers must adhere to help make the tax payment process stress free.

Rights Of The Taxpayers
Right to Pay Only The Correct Amount of Tax: All taxpayers are to receive the benefits, credits, and refunds to which they are entitled to under the law and to pay no more and no less than the correct amount required under the law.
Right to Privacy and Confidentiality:Taxpayers have the right to confidentiality of their information provided to the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA). A taxpayer’s information will be used only for purposes allowed by law. Only those persons who are authorized by law, and who require the information to administer programs and legislation, have the right to access the personal and financial information of taxpayers.
Right to Professional, Courteous, Efficient, Transparent and Fair Service:Taxpayers are to be treated courteously and with consideration at all times, including when the LRA requests information or arranges interviews and audits. Integrity, professionalism, respect and cooperation are core values that reflect our commitment to giving taxpayers the best possible service.
Right to Complete, Clear and Timely Information:Taxpayers have the right to complete, accurate and timely information that will explain in plain language the laws, policies and procedures regarding obligations and entitlements.
Right to Consistent Application of the Law: The Revenue Code of Liberia Act of 2000 and all amendments including regulations pertaining thereto shall be applied consistently so that every taxpayer gets his/her/its entitlements and pays the legitimate amount.
Right to Appeal and Judicial Review:Taxpayers are entitled to a formal review if they believe that the Commissioner General or any officer has not applied the law correctly or that they have not received their full entitlements under the law. An Appeals Officer shall conduct a formal and impartial review. Filing an objection (an appeal in the case of assessments) will begin with an Appeals Officer. If the matter is not resolved to the taxpayer’s satisfaction, the taxpayer is entitled to appeal to the Board of Tax Appeals or Tax Court.
Right of Refusal to Pay the Full Income Tax Amounts in Disputes before an Impartial Review: A taxpayer is required to make a partial payment of thirty percent (30%) of the tax amount in dispute excluding payment of interest and penalty pending the decision of the Board of Tax Appeals. After the review, if the Board of Tax Appeals finds the taxpayer’s protest to be contrary to the law or procedure, the taxpayer will be requested to make payment of the remaining seventy percent (70%) plus penalty and interest.If the Board of Tax Appeals finds the taxpayer objection or protest to be correct, the partial payment of thirty percent (30%) will be refunded and accrued interest will also be paid by the LRA.
Right to a Service Complaint and Redress: A taxpayer can expect that if he/she/it lodges a complaint about the service provided from the LRA, he/she/it will be listened to and given the opportunity to explain the situation. The LRA will deal with all complaints promptly, impartially and in confidence, and it will provide a formal explanation of its findings.
Right to Notice on Audit:Any notice or document sent by tax authorities must be written, signed by an authorized tax official, noting the taxpayers’ last name, and must carry the official stamp of the Republic of Liberia. LRA will take into account the costs of compliance. when administering tax legislation. We recognize the need to minimize your cost including time.
Right to Expect the LRA to be Accountable:A taxpayer has the right to expect the LRA to be accountable for what it does. When a decision is made about a tax obligation, the LRA will explain that decision and inform the taxpayer about his/her/its rights and obligations in respect to that decision.
Right to Refunds and Claims:Taxpayers are entitled to receive the benefits, credits and refunds in accordance with the law. They may file a claim for refund if it is established that taxes have been overpaid. The claim must be filed within 3 years from the date you file your original return or 2 years from the date the tax is paid, whichever is later. The law generally provides for interest on the refund if it is not paid within 45 days of the date the taxpayer’s return is filed or claim for refund is made.
Right to be Represented by the Person of your Choice : A taxpayer has the right to be represented by a person of his/her/its choice in the appeal process. However, decisions from such representation shall Be legally binding.
Rights Of The Taxpayers
The responsibility to file correctly and on time
The responsibility to pay due taxes fully and on time.
The responsibility to declare truthfully.
The responsibility to respect Tax Administrators.
The responsibility to provide complete information
Name
Address
Telephone Number
Email
The responsibility to provide an employee, contractor, or representative Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).

Scope of Marketing

Scope of Marketing
1. Study of Consumer Wants and Needs
Goods are produced to satisfy consumer wants. Therefore study is done to identify consumer needs and wants. These needs and wants motivates consumer to purchase.

2. Study of Consumer behavior
Marketers performs study of consumer behavior. Analysis of buyer behavior helps marketer in market segmentation and targeting.

3. Production planning and development
Product planning and development starts with the generation of product idea and ends with the product development and commercialization. Product planning includes everything from branding and packaging to product line expansion and contraction.

4. Pricing Policies
Marketer has to determine pricing policies for their products. Pricing policies differs form product to product. It depends on the level of competition, product life cycle, marketing goals and objectives, etc.

5. Distribution
Study of distribution channel is important in marketing. For maximum sales and profit goods are required to be distributed to the maximum consumers at minimum cost.

6. Promotion
Promotion includes personal selling, sales promotion, and advertising. Right promotion mix is crucial in accomplishment of marketing goals.

7. Consumer Satisfaction
The product or service offered must satisfy consumer. Consumer satisfaction is the major objective of marketing.

8. Marketing Control
Marketing audit is done to control the marketing activities.

Nature of Marketing

What is Marketing ?
Marketing refers to the activities of a company associated with buying and selling a product or service. It includes advertising, selling and delivering products to people. People who work in companies' marketing departments try to get the attention of target audiences using slogans, packaging design, celebrity endorsements and general media exposure
The management process through which goods and services move from concept to the customer. It includes the coordination of four elements called the 4 P's of marketing:
(1) identification, selection and development of a product,
(2) determination of its price,
(3) selection of a distribution channel to reach the customer's place, and
(4) development and implementation of a promotional strategy.

 Nature of Marketing
1. Marketing is an Economic Function
Marketing embraces all the business activities involved in getting goods and services , from the hands of producers into the hands of final consumers. The business steps through which goods progress on their way to final consumers is the concern of marketing.

2. Marketing is a Legal Process by which Ownership Transfers
In the process of marketing the ownership of goods transfers from seller to the purchaser or from producer to the end user.

3. Marketing is a System of Interacting Business Activities
Marketing is that process through which a business enterprise, institution, or organisation interacts with the customers and stakeholders with the objective to earn profit, satisfy customers, and manage relationship. It is the performance of business activities that direct the flow of goods and services from producer to consumer or user.

4. Marketing is a Managerial function
According to managerial or systems approach – “Marketing is the combination of activities designed to produce profit through ascertaining, creating, stimulating, and satisfying the needs and/or wants of a selected segment of the market.”

According to this approach the emphasis is on how the individual organisation processes marketing and develops the strategic dimensions of marketing activities.

5. Marketing is a social process
Marketing is the delivery of a standard of living to society. According to Cunningham and Cunningham (1981) societal marketing performs three essential functions:-
Knowing and understanding the consumer’s changing needs and wants;
Efficiently and effectively managing the supply and demand of products and services; and
Efficient provision of distribution and payment processing systems.
6. Marketing is a philosophy based on consumer orientation and satisfaction
7. Marketing had dual objectives – profit making and consumer satisfaction