Body Language
Non verbal communication includes the following aspects:
Facial expressions
Voice culture
Gestures
Eye contact
Spatial arrangements
Patterns of touch
Expressive movement
Body language
Of all the non verbal factors mentioned here, one should be aware of body
language, as beyond the words this speaks volumes. Thus, one needs to learn how
to effectively use their body to communicate better.
Take for instance, eye contact. Eye contact is an important channel of
interpersonal communication. This factor helps regulate the flow of
communication. It signals interest in others. Furthermore, eye contact with the
audience increases the speaker's credibility. It is also an important part of
effective team communication skills.
Another instance are the varied facial expressions. Take for example, the
importance of the smile... it is regarded as a powerful cue that transmits:
happiness, friendliness,
motivational, warmth, liking, affection, etc. With a gentle smile on
the face one is sending out a friendly signal, which is almost always
reciprocated in a positive manner.
Gestures are another important part of non verbal communications. If one fails
to use gestures while speaking, they tend to be perceived as boring, stiff and
unanimated. A lively and animated teaching and speaking style captures the
audience attention, at any given point. For example, nodding the head,
communicates positive reinforcement, indicating that the speaker is being heard.
Other aspects of the body that are important in communicating is the posture of
the body; as well as the proximity being maintained. For instance, while
listening one should lean a little forward to show that they are interested in
the conversation.