Methods of Communication - Part II

NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION

As the name suggests, this type of communication, transfers messages without the use of any word from any language. Messages here, are conveyed through gestures, postures, facial expressions, tone of voice, head movements, eye contact, etc. In general, non-verbal communication can also be referred to as communication through body language. This is because, in all the ways of non-verbal communication, stress is laid on some or the other body movement or position. Let us analyse some of the common types of non-verbal communications.

Gestures: Gestures mean actions. Many a times, in fact on a daily basis, we communicate using, not words, but actions. We wave at our best buddy, we wink when we indulge in some mischief, we give the thumbs up sign to someone we support. All these actions and many more convey the desired intention or meaning without using any particular word or sentence. These actions are so universal that the meaning doesn't change as you move from place to place. The only exception is the thumbs up sign, which in some places is considered a form of insult. However, the same culture attributes universal meaning to the same action.

Posture: Proper posture can convey a lot about the speaker or communicator. This type of non-verbal communication assumes greater importance in situations where impressions matter, for instance, a job interview. In a job interview, the first impression created is usually the last impression and candidates get selected on the basis of many such non-verbal aspects apart from their qualifications and eligibility. For instance, a person with an upright posture has a greater chance of being selected for a position than another person with similar qualifications and experience but carrying himself / herself in a slouched manner or with the shoulders drooping.

Tone of Voice: This is where the subtlety of language comes in. When talking about the tone of voice, we do not mean the words we choose, but the tone we choose to utter them. The same sentence can have different meaning when said in different tones, laying stress at different positions. Sometimes, the tone of voice also is a clue to hidden sarcasm in a sentence.

Head Movements: Head movements often convey straight forward messages across. The nod of one's head during a discussion always means an agreement or positive response from the receiver whereas a shake of the head means a negative response or disagreement. Head movements are also a great way of offering instant and quick feedback to the sender.

Eye contact: Eye contact shows confidence. This is also another requirement during formal situations to create a lasting impression. However, too much of eye contact can be intimidating and hence a judicious use of eye contact is necessary during any situation - formal or informal. In informal situations, eye contact conveys support and expresses love.

The following video explains the aspects of non-verbal communication in greater detail.

Stay tuned for a detailed discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of various channels of communication