NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION

The Importance of Non-Verbal Communication

For instance, it’s not always just what you say. It’s also how you “say” it – taking into account your eyes, your posture, your overall body language, even your appearance at the time the communication is exchanged, and the voice in which you offer the exchange.

In verbal communication, an active dialogue is engaged with the use of words. At the same time, however, non-verbal communication takes place, relying on nonverbal cues, such as gestures, eye contact, facial expressions, even clothing and personal space.

Nonverbal cues are very powerful, making it crucial that you pay attention to your actions, as well as the nonverbal cues of those around you. If, during your meeting, participants begin to doodle or chat amongst themselves, they are no longer paying attention to you: Your message has become boring or your delivery is no longer engaging.

Enhancing your communications:

• Because gestures can both compliment and contradict your message, be mindful of these.
• Eye contact is an important step in sending and receiving messages. Eye contact can be a signal of interest, a signal of recognition, even a sign of honesty and credibility.
• Closely linked to eye contact are facial expressions, which can reflect attitudes and emotions.
• Posture can also be used to more effectively communicate your message.
• Clothing is important. By dressing for your job, you show respect for the values and conventions of your organization.
• Be mindful of people’s personal space when communicating. Do not invade their personal space by getting too close and do not confuse communications by trying to exchange messages from too far away.