Nonverbal Communication Actions, as opposed to words, that send messages Body language, behavior Some messages are subtle, such as posture Can be so strong that it overwhelms the written or verbal messages.

Body Language When you speak, you send nonverbal messages through gestures, facial expressions, and other body actions or posture Smile, sneer, raise an eyebrow, shrug shoulders, nod in agreement, cross your arms, clench your teeth Being aware of nonverbal communication is an essential business skill You run the risk of sending wrong message or feedback

Body Language There is often not a literal meaning to a nonverbal language Must be considered in the context in which they occur (the environment or setting in which something occurs or is communicated) Other words or situation that surround a word, action, or idea and helps clarify meaning Used to determine what it actually means

Nonverbal Communication Eye contact is an important form of body language.

Touch and Space Sends strong messages Firm handshake along with eye contact and a smile convey openness and confidence Handshake is about the form of touch that is acceptable. Boundaries vary, depending on the nature of the business and the culture In general, do not engage in any physical contact other than what is required for your work

Touch and Space Personal Space—the space you place between yourself and others—is another aspect of body language. Boundary becomes apparent when someone gets too close. Cultural background is a factor (social upbringing and community norms)

Behavior Nonverbal messages can compete with verbal messages, and can even negate them True of body `language Actions speak louder than words

Behavior It is important to take behavioral cues from others with more experience, but do not make the mistake of emulating poor habits.

Paralanguage Attitude you project with the tone and pitch of your voice Reflected in speech as a sharp or soft tone, raising or lowering of the voice, speaking quickly or slowly, and the general quality of the voice. Nonverbal communication that reflects the speaker’s true attitude

Paralanguage Remember that the tone, pitch, quality of voice, and rate of speaking convey emotions that will be judged by the receiver, regardless of the content of the message.

Case: Routine Habit

Checkpoint 1.What is nonverbal communication? 2.Why is paralanguage considered nonverbal communication?

Barriers to Effective Communication Anything that prevents clear, effective communication

Sending Barriers Can occur when the sender says or does something that causes the receiver to tune out Can happen when the receiver simply does not understand what the sender is talking about

Ways sender might cause barriers: Using poor grammar or spelling Overlooking typos and formatting errors Presenting visually unattractive text or inappropriate graphics Assuming too much or too little about what the receiver already knows Using inappropriate language (slang, jargon, or too formal or informal phrasing)

Face-to-face causes of barriers: Distracting mannerisms Facial expressions that conflict with the words being said Inappropriate dress or demeanor Sarcastic or angry tone of voice Speaking too softly or too loudly

How can sender overcome barriers? Follow rules of writing, grammar, and formatting Maintain positive body language and behavior Do not assume too much or too little about what the receiver already knows Select appropriate format for message based on the situation Ask for feedback from receiver

Case: Matter of Time

Receiving Barriers Can occur when the receiver says or does something that causes the sender’s message not to be received. Receiver has responsibility to give attention and respect to the sender.

Overcoming receiving barriers Make sure you read all of what’s been written Take responsibility for getting clarification Actively listen Give feedback A listener who is willing to accept responsibility for getting clarification will be a more effective communicator.

Checkpoint 1.What is a sending barrier? 2.What is a receiving barrier?