Nonverbal Communication Examples in the Workplace

by Kate McFarlin, Demand Media Google

Nonverbal communication plays an important role in the workplace, particularly when you are dealing with the public. Nonverbal cues tell a speaker whether you are listening to him and are interested in what he has to say. Communication examples in the workplace can be applied to learn the proper way to interact with others on nonverbally.

Eyes and Facial Expressions

The eyes and facial expression of a listener are important to a speaker. If a listener is rolling her eyes, has a bored expression or seems glazed over, these are blatant cues that the listener is not actually listening or does not care about the speaker has to say. Make eye contact during conversations and take care that your facial expression is one of alertness and caring. Although not an actual "facial" expression, head movements such as nodding are also important visual cues that let people know you are listening, processing the information and care about what is being said.

Hand Gestures

This area of nonverbal communication depends on the person. Not everyone "talks" with their hands, but integrating hand gestures into communication is a good way to get your point across. Examples to avoid would be pointing at the listener as this feels confrontational or wild hand gestures that take away from what you are saying. Speakers often use hand gestures to help solidify a point they are making, with a subtle downward hand movement for an emphatic point or expansive gestures when making a large point.

General Body Language

Crossing your arms over your chest signifies to a listener that you do not agree with them and you are closed off from what they are saying. Fidgeting while listening also imparts cues that you are not interested in what is going on. This includes fiddling with your hands or doodling, as well as swinging your foot and crossing and recrossing your legs. Keeping still while listening may not be easy, but it lets the speaker know that you care about what they are saying.

Body Positioning

Body positioning is subtly different from actual body movements. For example, even if you are sitting perfectly still but are leaning backwards, this gives the impression of disinterest or even downright disagreement. Inclining towards your listeners or the person who is speaking to you gives them the impression that you are engaged in the conversation. When people don't get along, they may give off subtle cues in their body positioning by turning slightly away, giving the impression that they want to leave the conversation. Open and engaged body positioning is important in a conversation.

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