Clear Non-Verbal Communication
Our non-verbal communication speaks volumes. People will often take our true meaning from our body language rather than the words we speak.
It pays to be mindful of what messages our non-verbal communication is sending and to make sure they are consistent with our words. Here are some tips about how to use non-verbal communication effectively and clearly.
Tips from Darlene Price, author of Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results:
- Good eye contact: This communicates involvement, interest and warmth. Try to maintain eye contact with someone for at least two to three seconds at a time.
- Effective gestures: These help to express your idea, opinion, or emotion. Be yourself and let spontaneous and natural movements come into your expression to punctuate your words.
- Appropriate facial expressions: Research has shown that if our facial expression and our words don’t match, people will believe our facial expression over our words. Be aware of your expression and make sure it is in line with the message you want to convey.
- Give your full attention: When speaking with someone, point your toes towards them and square your shoulders towards them, this shows that you are attentive. Lean into the conversation a little to show engagement.
Check out this 3-minute video to find out more about how our non-verbal communication can support or contradict our message.
