A large part of face-to-face communication is of non-verbal and is expressed by body language and tone of voice. It is important to be mindful of the impact body language can have on your communications, in both a positive and negative way. Body language is a powerful tool and often can convey how somebody is feeling more than their verbal communications.
It isKey elements of non-verbal communications include: posture, gestures, eye contact, facial expressions and your tone of voice.Posture can often be the most noticeable of all non-verbal communications, especially when trying to create a positive first impression. How you position yourself while communicating sends a message to audience. Positive posture would include standing upright, with your arms by your side, at a comfortable distance away from the other person. This shows you are engaged in the conversation.
Slouching, encroaching on somebody’s person space, folded arms or standing away from somebody are off-putting postures to adapt when trying to engage positively with them; it can show you are disinterested and standing too close to somebody can feel intimidating. Head and hand gestures are also important, used in a positive way, they can show you are engaged and actively listening to what the other person is saying. Nodding from time to time shows you understand and identify with what they are saying.
However, pointing at or having your hands in the face of your colleagues can come across as intimidating.Maintaining eye contact while you are being spoken to shows you are actively listening, although maintain eye contact for too long or without blinking can come across as though you are staring at them and can be seen as confrontational. Facial expressions can also have a positive and negative impact on your communications. Frowning whilst somebody is speaking to you can seem as though you do not agree with or are doubting what are saying and can negatively impact your communications.
A smile shows your are positively engaged, and taking on board what they are saying and smiling while you speak helps to convey a positive attitude.
