Nonverbal Communication Body Language

Nonverbal communication (body language) is behavior other than spoken or written communication that creates or represents meaning. In other words, it includes facial expressions, body movements, and gestures. Nonverbal communication is talking without speaking a word. It is very effective, maybe even more so than speech. Remember the saying, “actions speak louder than words.”

Body language says a lot about a person at work, at home, in relationships, friendships or just talking or watching people in general. Your body sends out signals or messages to someone without you having to say a word. You could be talking to someone and your body language will convey something else entirely. In a business setting, your boss, your co-workers, other people coming and going can all see what you may or may not be saying to someone, whether you use words or not. Observing people is a great way to learn about body language communication and how you talk to people.

EYES

Direct Eye Contact Shows you are interested- consider common phrases about people in love- “she only has eyes for him”, “they can’t keep their eyes off each other” Confident Being truthful

Avoiding Eye Contact Trying to hide something- lying Nervous Not interested

Eyes Glancing all Around Room Bored Lack of interest

Rolling Eyes Disgust Disagreement

Piercing Eye Contact Angry Feels superior

HEAD

Nodding Head In agreement Shows you are listening and comprehending

Playing with Hair Insecure Nervous

FACE

Smiling Says I am happy to be here Friendly, inviting Puts someone at ease Agreement

Sweating Nervous Scared

Yawning Boredom

Blushing Embarrassed Angry

HANDS

Fidgeting with: rings, watch, cuff-links, buttons, pens, rubber bands, paper clips, spectacles, cuticles and nails, note cards, coins in pocket, pointers, etc. Nervous Scared Lack of confidence

Clutching: back of a chair, notes, desk, side of a lectern Nervous Scared Lack of confidence

Drumming Fingers Boredom Lack of interest Frustration

BODY

Leaning toward speaker or positioning body toward speaker (when seating down) Interest In agreement

Arms Crossed Opposition Thinking deeply Defensive Putting up an unconscious barrier between yourself and others

Feet on Desk, Hands behind Head or on Hips Dominance Power Overconfident

Looking at Watch, Door Lack of interest Boredom

Brisk Walk Confidence

Standing Tall Confidence