Non Verbal Communication Skill
All conversations are affected by our non verbal communication skill and body language. Even if you are unaware of the nonverbal communication by the other person it has its affect on the conversation. Communication is continuous. Everyone communicates. Even when you do not want to participate in a conversation your silence is communicating. You are giving out nonverbal communication. Sometimes communication signals may be mis-interpreted by others, but at all times you are sending out messages. It is important to be gain good non verbal communication skills and become aware of the messages you are giving out. Your aim should be to give clear messages where your body language and verbal communication match.
Become skilled at using non verbal communication skills. You might like to watch yourself speak into a mirror and observe your facial expressions. Sometimes a fixed expression would be translated as cold or uninviting, whereas a smile is welcoming. Eye Contact Different levels of eye contact can be translated in a variety of ways. A friendly and inviting eye contact is welcoming and means you are interested in what the person has to say. If you ‘stare’ at the other person it may feel like an act of aggressive and intimidation. Its important to be aware of how the other person feels when you are using nonverbal communication skills. If the person stops speaking because you are gazing in the distance they may feel as though you are uninterested. Be aware of the ‘silent’ messages you are sending and adjust them to encourage effective communication. Cultural Differences Also, be aware of the differences between cultures when considering nonverbal communication. Different cultures might prefer distance and personal space, where as others might communicate within inches of your face. In some cultures its an insult to look a person directly in the eye, in others its common to make eye contact. Summary: * Take note of the feedback you receive from people during communication. * Be aware of your body language and how it affects the speaker.
(The word "non-verbal" usually has a dash in the middle, but you will find the keyword "non verbal" or "nonverbal" throughout this web page.)
Communication Skill Lesson Plan
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Use your non verbal communication skills to monitor your facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, body movements and positions, the distance between you and the speaker, and the use of touch.
