Non-verbal communication (week 3)

Satveer Bhantoo

Non-Verbal communication

Non-verbal communication is basically the use of body languages to help with transmitting information. Usually this is done instinctively, but one can also train on this aspect to give a better emphasis on the message. These include the posture, facial expression, gestures, eye-contact and occasionally touching.

In one-on-one situation form of communication can be a huge strength.

Posture : This involves the way one stands. It tells a lot about the level of confidence that one has. For instance someone slumping and slouching is definitely not showing a decent level of confidence. On the other hand, someone standing upright with a good posture shows definite level of confidence!

Facial expression : Small face gestures such as biting lips or un-needed face expressions shows a lack of confidence. On the other hand, one who is smilling shows a brighter perspective and hence a better level of confidence!

Gestures : Just like facial expression, unneeded body movements such as constant moving or tapping of foot or nail biting shows a negative image of yourself. On the other hand, give a form handshake indicates to the other party that you are confident!

Eye-contact : Maintaining a constant eye contact is one of the hardest and crucial part of, non-verbally, showing confidence to your listeners. This indicates that you are fully focused and sure on what you are talking about!

Touching: This is occasionally used to show support and encouragement. However one should take into consideration the norms and cultural background before involving in any such actions as sometimes, depending on various factors, one might misunderstand this as being sexual harassment.