Intro to Business Communication: Interpersonal Communication - Nonverbal Communication, Facial Expressions Posture Gestures Proxemics Eye Contact Paralinguistics

What This Is

Non-verbal communication is the way we convey meaning without using words. It's essential in the workplace because it can make or break relationships, convey confidence or nervousness, and even influence decisions. For example, a poorly written email with a generic subject line and no greeting can give the impression that you're not interested in the recipient's time or opinion.

Key Principles & Techniques

• Facial Expressions: The way we use our face to show emotions, such as smiling or frowning. Tip: Practice a genuine smile in the mirror to improve your confidence.
• Posture: The way we hold our body, such as standing up straight or slouching. Tip: Stand up straight and make eye contact when meeting someone new.
• Gestures: The way we use our hands and arms to emphasize points or show enthusiasm. Tip: Avoid fidgeting with your hands or tapping your feet during meetings.
• Proxemics: The way we use space to communicate, such as standing close or far away from someone. Tip: Respect personal space by standing at least 3-4 feet away from someone.
• Eye Contact: The way we use our eyes to show interest or attention. Tip: Maintain eye contact for 7-10 seconds at a time to show you're engaged.
• Paralinguistics: The way we use tone, pitch, and volume to convey meaning. Tip: Vary your tone to show enthusiasm or empathy.
• Cultural Awareness: Understanding how non-verbal cues differ across cultures. Tip: Research the cultural norms of your colleagues or clients to avoid misunderstandings.
• Active Listening: Paying attention to the speaker and showing you're engaged. Tip: Nod your head and ask questions to show you're interested.
• Body Language Mirroring: Imitating the body language of the person you're interacting with. Tip: Mirror the posture and gestures of the speaker to build rapport.
• Non-Verbal Cues in Writing: Using formatting and punctuation to convey meaning in written communication. Tip: Use headings and bullet points to make written communication more scannable.

Do's and Don'ts

• DO: Use a clear and concise subject line in emails to grab the reader's attention.
• DON'T: Use overly casual language or jargon in formal emails or meetings.
• DO: Make eye contact when giving feedback to show you're engaged and interested.
• DON'T: Cross your arms or legs when receiving feedback to show you're defensive.
• DO: Use positive body language, such as smiling and nodding, to show you're engaged in a meeting.
• DON'T: Check your phone or watch during meetings to show you're distracted.

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Not making eye contact when speaking to someone.
• Correction: Make eye contact for 7-10 seconds at a time to show you're engaged and confident.
• Mistake: Using overly casual language in formal emails or meetings.
• Correction: Use professional language and tone to show respect and authority.
• Mistake: Not respecting personal space when interacting with someone.
• Correction: Stand at least 3-4 feet away from someone to show respect for their space.

Quick Practice

Scenario 1: You're in a meeting and the speaker is using a lot of jargon. What should you do?

Answer: Ask the speaker to explain the jargon in simpler terms. Explanation: This shows you're interested in understanding the topic and willing to learn.

Scenario 2: You're writing an email and you want to convey a sense of urgency. What should you do?

Answer: Use a clear and concise subject line and include a deadline in the email. Explanation: This shows you're serious about the topic and willing to take action.

Scenario 3: You're in a meeting and someone is dominating the conversation. What should you do?

Answer: Ask a question or share your own thoughts to show you're engaged and interested. Explanation: This shows you're willing to contribute and participate in the conversation.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Non-verbal communication is 93% of communication.
• Make eye contact for 7-10 seconds at a time to show you're engaged.
• Use positive body language, such as smiling and nodding, to show you're engaged.
• Respect personal space by standing at least 3-4 feet away from someone.
• Use clear and concise language in emails and meetings.
• Avoid using overly casual language in formal emails or meetings.
• Use headings and bullet points to make written communication more scannable.
• Don't check your phone or watch during meetings.
• Use a clear and concise subject line in emails to grab the reader's attention.
• Don't use jargon or overly technical language in formal emails or meetings.
• BCC is not a secret weapon – overuse damages trust.
• CC is not a substitute for clear and concise language.
• Avoid using overly formal language in informal emails or meetings.