Forms of non-verbal communication and its skills
What is nonverbal communication
Nonverbal communication is conveying information through the use of body language including eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, etc. Nonverbal communication relies on seeing and analyzing bodily movements rather than verbal communication, or using language to convey information through written text, speaking, or sign language. .
forms of non-verbal communication
Nonverbal communication is often not intentional and can provide significant information about both people and situations. There are several forms of nonverbal communication that you should be aware of, including:
- body language
Body language is the way someone positions their body depending on the situation, the environment and how they are feeling, for example: someone might cross their arms if they are feeling angry or stressed.
- the movement
The way you move your arms and legs, such as walking quickly or slowly, standing, sitting, or fidgeting, can all convey different messages to onlookers, for example: sitting still and paying attention in a meeting conveys respect and concern.
- Situation
The way you sit or stand can also convey your level of comfort, professionalism, and general disposition towards a person or conversation, for example: someone may slack their shoulders if they are feeling tired, frustrated, or disappointed.
- gestures
While gestures vary widely across societies, they are generally used both intentionally and unintentionally to convey information to others, for example: someone might offer a 'thumbs up' to communicate affirmation or that they feel positive about something.
- Create a space
Creating or closing distance between yourself and the people around you can also convey messages about your comfort level, the importance of conversation, and your desire to support or connect with others, for example: You might stand two to three feet away from a new contact to respect their boundaries.
- Paralanguage language
Paralanguage includes the non-linguistic elements of speech, such as speaking speed, tone of voice, intonation, volume, etc. For example: You might speak quickly if you are excited about something.
- face features
Facial expressions are one of the most common forms of nonverbal communication. Using the eyebrows, mouth, eyes, and facial muscles to express emotion or information can be very effective, for example: someone might raise their eyebrows and open their eyes wide if they feel surprised.
- eye contact
Strategically using eye content (or lack of eye contact) is a very effective way to communicate your attention and interest, for example: looking away from someone and down to the ground may convey disinterest or disrespect.
- touch
Some people also use touch as a form of communication, it is used to communicate support or comfort, this type of communication should be used sparingly and only when you know the receiving party is okay with it, it should never be used to express anger, frustration, or any other negative emotion For example: Placing your hand on your friend's shoulder may convey support or sympathy.
Non-verbal communication skills
Having strong communication skills is essential for building personal and professional relationships. There are many common skills that make you a valuable colleague and leader. These skills are also in demand in employers with whom you can interview. These skills fall into four main categories:
- Attention
While it sounds simple, being able to stay engaged is an essential skill that can help you learn quickly and communicate effectively.
- Picking up nonverbal cues
It becomes easier to recognize both small and clear nonverbal communication, and intentional nonverbal communication. When you practice, pay attention to people's posture, movements, body language, facial expressions, and eye contact as they change.
- Interpreting nonverbal signals
Once you can identify nonverbal cues more easily and accurately, you can learn to interpret them as a better way of communicating. For example, if you notice that someone is speaking softly with their shoulders relaxed or arms crossed, this may be a sign that they are feeling tense or anxious. You can respond. Sigh by smiling and keeping your body warm and open.
- Use of nonverbal cues
It is equally important to develop the use of nonverbal cues to support your professional skills and to control any unproductive or unprofessional communications in the workplace.
The importance of nonverbal communication
Nonverbal communication is important because it gives us valuable information about a situation including how a person might be feeling, how someone is receiving information and how to engage with a person or group of people. Taking an interest in developing the ability to read nonverbal communication is an invaluable skill that you can benefit from. them at every stage of your career.
The benefits of nonverbal communication
There are several ways nonverbal communication can support your ability to communicate effectively in the workplace, including:
- supports your message
When conducting a conversation, participating in a meeting, or engaging in conversation, nonverbal cues can emphasize the content of your message. For example, using hand gestures to indicate the importance of an idea can prompt listeners to pay attention to and remember a key point.
- transmits messages
You can also use only nonverbal communication to communicate with others, for example, if someone is explaining a feeling you like and agree with, you can nod your head up and down to show your solidarity.
- Intent appears
Your body language may also express your current state intentionally or unintentionally, for example, people may pick up on nonverbal cues that you are dishonest, disengaged, excited or aggressive.
- conveys feelings
You can also use nonverbal communication to show your feelings, such as disappointment, relief, happiness, and contentment.
- Provides support
Nonverbal cues are also a great way to show support, whether it's a simple smile or a pat on the back, in many cases actions can speak louder than words.
- Displays your personality
Nonverbal communication is a great way to show who you are, for example, a kind and optimistic person might smile more often with open body language and offer friendly touches.
- Indicates the required action
This might include moving slowly towards the door to indicate you want to leave the room, raising your hand to introduce an idea or raising your hand to meet someone new.
- De-escalates tension
Using a calm tone of voice, open body language, and directive gestures may help in difficult situations.
How to improve nonverbal communication
To improve your nonverbal communication, there are some steps you can take:
- Take a body language test
Pay close attention to the ways in which you use body language throughout the work week. Notice your body language, facial expressions, and posture in meetings, during informal exchanges, and in presentations. See how others respond to your natural nonverbal communication.
- Notice how your emotions feel physically
Emotions are not only felt in the mind, while they also affect us physically. Throughout the day, when you experience a range of emotions (anything from euphoria, boredom, happiness, or frustration), try to identify where within your body you feel those emotions. It can give you Develop self-awareness of how your emotions affect your body Greater mastery of external presentation.
- Be intentional about your nonverbal communications
Be mindful when trying to communicate with others using facial expressions or body language. Make an effort to display positive body language when you are feeling alert, open, and positive about your surroundings.