NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION

Non-verbal communication is the expression or exchange of information or messages without using any spoken or written word.

In other words, we send signals and messages to others, through expressions, gestures, postures, touch, space, eye contact and para language.

Importance of Non-verbal Communication

In our day-to-day communication

  • 55% communication is done using body movements, face, arms, etc.
  • 38% communication is done using voice, tone, pauses, etc.
  • only 7% communication is done using words.

TYPES OF NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION

Facial Expressions

Our expressions can show different feelings, such as Happiness, Sadness, Anger, Surprise, Fear, etc.

How to use effectively?

  • Smile when you meet someone.
  • Keep your face relaxed.
  • Match your expressions with your words.
  • Nod while listening.

Posture

Postures show our confidence and feelings. For example, a straight body posture shows confidence while a slumped posture is a sign of weakness.

How to use effectively?

  • Keep your shoulders straight and body relaxed.
  • Sit straight while resting your hands and feet in relaxed position.
  • While standing, keep your hands by your sides.

Gestures or Body Language

Gestures include body movements that express an idea or meaning. For example, raising a hand in class to ask a question and biting nails when nervous.

How to use effectively?

  • Keep your hands open.
  • Avoid pointing your finger at people.
  • Tilt your head a bit to show that you are attentive.

Touch

We communicate a great deal through touch. For example, a firm handshake to display confidence and pat on the back to encourage someone.

How to use effectively?

  • Shake hands firmly while meeting someone.
  • Avoid other touch gestures during formal communication.

Space

Space is the physical distance between two people. The space between tow persons while communicating, generally depends on the intimacy or closeness between them.

How to use effectively?

  • Maintain proper space depending on the relationship, which could be formal or informal or the closeness with the person with whom you are talking.

Eye Contact

The way we look at someone can communicate a lot. Eye contact shows that we are paying attention to the person as opposed to looking away, which can make the other person feel ignored.

How to use effectively?

  • Look directly at the person who is speaking.
  • Avoid staring; keep a relaxed look.
  • Maintain eye contact with intermittent breaks.

Paralanguage

How we speak affects our communication and includes the tone, speed and volume of our voice. For example, talking fast may show happiness, excitement or nervousness while speaking slow may show seriousness or sadness.

How to use effectively?

  • Use a suitable tone and volume
  • Maintain a moderate speed while talking