In face-to-face encounters non-verbal communication is often just as important as verbal communication. The non-verbal signals of listeners will provide instant feedback. Non-verbal communication is often referred to as body language. Non-verbal communication techniques are often used unconsciously, for instance while speaking we may throw our arms around, while listening a sudden shock may result in a sharp intake of breath. Such non-verbal signals add impact to a meaning and they combine to provide an instant impression in a way that written communication or telephone calls cannot. Actions of this sort are an important part of the communication process.
POSTURE the way people stand or sit can say an awful lot about how they feel. Someone who is nervous or anxious will fidget with their hands, top their feet, drum the table with their fingers. Someone who is sitting hell back in their chair, leg crossed at the ankle, may be seen as being relaxed and confident. Someone with a gloomy expression, head down and lifeless is probably feeling depressed or dejected. Someone sitting forward in their chair looking intently at the speaker, is showing a great deal of interest. The ability to interpret such signals and act as necessary is important in developing good human relations.
FACIAL EXPRESSIONS human faces are capable of communicating a wide range of expression and emotion. A smile conveys good humans, raised eyebrows denote questioning and disbelief, a frown denotes upset or worry.
GESTURES many gestures are used as we speak, for example, shaking a fist to denote anger, sweeping arms in excitement, using hands for emphasis. In listening, too, gestures are used, like nodding in agreement, shaking your head in disapproval, putting your hand to your chin in consideration, folding your arms in boredom. These are all valuable signs in communicating and you should learn to read such gestures carefully.
EYE-CONTACT the importance of eye contact is paramount. Looking someone directly in the eye suggests openness, honesty, confidence and comfort. Looking away gives an impression of being conniving or sly, or perhaps just unsure and uncomfortable. When speaking to one person try to look them in the eye. When speaking to a group avoid fixing your gaze on one or two people-let your eyes roam regularly to all corners of the room so that everyone feels involved.
TOUCHING is an important tool to convey worth, reassurance, support, encouragement and comfort. In some cultures because touching implies intimacy and familiarity, there are very strict rules that govern who may touch whom and how. These norms of behavior may change according to age, status, cultural background, etc. In today's workplace, touching has become rather a contentious issues, as it could sometimes be construed as sexual harassment.
POSTURE the way people stand or sit can say an awful lot about how they feel. Someone who is nervous or anxious will fidget with their hands, top their feet, drum the table with their fingers. Someone who is sitting hell back in their chair, leg crossed at the ankle, may be seen as being relaxed and confident. Someone with a gloomy expression, head down and lifeless is probably feeling depressed or dejected. Someone sitting forward in their chair looking intently at the speaker, is showing a great deal of interest. The ability to interpret such signals and act as necessary is important in developing good human relations.
FACIAL EXPRESSIONS human faces are capable of communicating a wide range of expression and emotion. A smile conveys good humans, raised eyebrows denote questioning and disbelief, a frown denotes upset or worry.
GESTURES many gestures are used as we speak, for example, shaking a fist to denote anger, sweeping arms in excitement, using hands for emphasis. In listening, too, gestures are used, like nodding in agreement, shaking your head in disapproval, putting your hand to your chin in consideration, folding your arms in boredom. These are all valuable signs in communicating and you should learn to read such gestures carefully.
EYE-CONTACT the importance of eye contact is paramount. Looking someone directly in the eye suggests openness, honesty, confidence and comfort. Looking away gives an impression of being conniving or sly, or perhaps just unsure and uncomfortable. When speaking to one person try to look them in the eye. When speaking to a group avoid fixing your gaze on one or two people-let your eyes roam regularly to all corners of the room so that everyone feels involved.
TOUCHING is an important tool to convey worth, reassurance, support, encouragement and comfort. In some cultures because touching implies intimacy and familiarity, there are very strict rules that govern who may touch whom and how. These norms of behavior may change according to age, status, cultural background, etc. In today's workplace, touching has become rather a contentious issues, as it could sometimes be construed as sexual harassment.