Nonverbal communication is important because it gives us valuable information about a situation including how a person might be feeling, how someone receives information and how to approach a person or group of people.
There are several types of nonverbal communications you should be aware of, including:
1. Body language
Body language is the way someone situates their body naturally depending on the situation, the environment and how they are feeling.
Example: Someone might cross their arms if they are feeling angry or nervous.
2. 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.
Example: Sitting still and paying attention in a meeting conveys respect and attention.
3. Posture
The way you sit or stand can also communicate your comfort level, professionalism and general disposition towards a person or conversation.
Example: Someone might slouch their shoulders if they feel tired, frustrated or disappointed.
4. Gestures
While gestures vary widely across communities, they are generally used both intentionally and unintentionally to convey information to others.
Example: Someone in the United States might display a “thumbs up” to communicate confirmation or that they feel positively about something.
5. Space
Creating or closing distance between yourself and the people around you can also convey messages about your comfort level, the importance of the conversation, your desire to support or connect with others and more.
Example: You might stand two to three feet away from a new contact to respect their boundaries.
6. Paralanguage:
Paralanguage includes the non-language elements of speech, such as your talking speed, pitch, intonation, volume and more.
Example: You might speak quickly if you are excited about something.
7. Facial expressions
One of the most common forms of nonverbal communication is facial expressions. Using the eyebrows, mouth, eyes and facial muscles to convey can be very effective when communicating both emotion and information.
Example: Someone might raise their eyebrows and open their eyes widely if they feel surprised.
8. Eye contact
Strategically using eye content (or lack of eye contact) is an extremely effective way to communicate your attention and interest.
Example: Looking away from someone and at the ground or your phone may convey disinterest or disrespect.
9. Touch
Some people also use touch as a form of communication. Most commonly, it is used to communicate support or comfort. This form of communication should be used sparingly and only when you know the receiving party is okay with it. It should never be used to convey anger, frustration or any other negative emotions.
Example: Placing your hand on a friend’s shoulder may convey support or empathy.
[Reference:, - CIPS study guide page 174-175, - Nonverbal Communication Skills: Definition and Examples, LO 3, AC 3.3, , ]
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