Non-Verbal Communication

Lecture II

Non- verbal communication

Its a process of communicating without words.

It is spontaneous. Often it expresses true feelings

more than the written or spoken words.

Elements of nonverbal communication

Appearance Body language or kinesics Time, space and sounds

Appearance

Conveys nonverbal impressions that affect recipients attitudes even before they read or listen to it.

Envelops- size, color, postage may interest the recipient as “important”, “regular” or “junk" mail

Impression of stationary,its length, format and typing.

Enclosure – quantity and attractiveness give significant non verbal impressions.

Effect of appearance on oral message

Personal Appearance-clothing, jwellery, hairstyle, cosmetics, fingernails, neatness, stature.

Appearance of surrounding-room size, location, furnishing, machines and architecture.

Body language or Kinesics

At times they are more meaningful than written or spoken words.

Important for special occasions, interviews and while speaking to the group.

Be careful in interpreting them in our normal interpersonal communication.

Facial Expressions

Eyes and face are helpful means of communicating nonverbally.

They divulge hidden emotions. Direct eye contact is desirable

when two individuals converse face to face.

55%of non verbal communication occur in this form.

Gestures and Postures

Conveys impressions of self-confidence, status, interest.

Convey intended and unintended messages.

Paralanguage

Concerned with the “how” part of it. It is concerned with voice and

vocal cues. Includes the study of tone, rate of

speech, volume, diction. 38%of message is conveyed

through them.

Smell and Touch Smell conveys about the personality &

hygiene of the individual& org. Conveys alarm in cases of unanticipated

happenings. Touch is away to convey warmth,

comfort and reassurance In business settings it suggest

dominance Is governed by strict social customs.

Time, space and silence

They are used to assert authority and status.

Time conveys interest and disinterest.

Space determine the comfort level while talking.

Distance conveys feelings, emotions, state of mind and temperament.

Tips for improving Non-verbal communication skills. Avoid giving conflicting signals. Try to be as honest as possible in

communicating your emotions. Smile genuinely. Maintain eye-contact. Beware of your postures and

gestures. Try to use appropriate vocal signals

to minimize unintentional message.

Continued…. Imitate the appearance of people

you want to impress. Respect your audience’s comfort

zone. Adopt a handshake that matches

your personality. Be aware of the varying attitude

towards time. Use touch only when appropriate.

Interpretation of nonverbal signals…..

Beware that people might give false non-verbal cues.

Consider non-verbal signals in the context of the situation and culture.

Impression Management-through non-verbal signals

We know the importance of “first impression”

But first impressions happen everytime we initiate the communication.

Before someone processes our verbal messages,

She has taken in our appearance, Registered our enthusiasm and sincerety Noted our tone of voice and processed all

into nonverbal message.

Projecting a Powerful Image

How would you like to sound?How would you like to look?How did you look &sound ?The name of the difference is the “image

gap”Projecting an image that is consistent with

the person you want to be, significantly improves your ability to develop trust &rapport

Projecting a Powerful Image

Image can be critical to your success.It is definitely a key element of communication.Politicians, singers, anchormans, top managersIt is irrational but people mostly judge the book

by the cover. They expect a totaly different image from an executive and a rock musician.

Businessworld expect neat, clean, energetic look which reflects that she is ready to work.

Projecting a Powerful Image

Total image consists of: The first impressions you project The depth of your knowledge The breadth of your knowledge Your enthusiasm.

First Impression

Positive first impression make communications much easier and more comfortable.

Negative first impressions can cut off a relationship before it gets started.

Many people give up rather than trying to reverse the other people’s negative impression.

Assignment

1. Discuss what the following body movements suggest when they are being exhibited by someone during a conversation. how do such movements influence your interpretation of the spoken word?

Continued…

a) Shifting one’s body continuously while seated.

b) Sitting in a sprawled manner.c) Rolling one’s eye.d) Extending a weak handshake.e) Twirling and playing with one’s

hair.

Continued…

2. Select a business letter and envelop that you have recently received. Analyze their appearance, what nonverbal cues do they send. Are the messages sent are in consistence with the content of the letter. if not ,then give your suggestions for improvement.