FR APS Unit 4.3 PDF
FR APS Unit 4.3 PDF
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Non-Verbal Communication
When we communicate with others, it is not only about what we say. It’s also about our facial expressions and our body
language. We call this non-verbal communication. Our non-verbal communication tells others a great deal about how we
feel, whether we are listening, whether we are interested and whether we are enthusiastic. To be successful in a
professional environment, we need to think carefully about our non-verbal communication and we need to learn how to
be more effective in communicating ourselves non-verbally.
Non-verbal communication can be defined as “behaviour and elements of speech aside from the words themselves that
transmit meaning.” This can include the way that we say things, for example the pitch, speed, tone and volume of our
voice. It also includes what we are doing when we are communicating - our gestures and facial expressions, body posture,
stance, and proximity to the listener, eye movements and eye contact.
Research suggests that only 7% of what we communicate is produced by the spoken word, 43% by the tone, speed, and
other elements of voice, and 50% by body language, eye movements and eye contact. This shows how important non-
verbal communication is.
If we can be better at understanding our own non-verbal communication, we can become better communicators and this
can help us to be more successful in our jobs (and in life). By better understanding non-verbal communication, we can also
become better at understanding what others around us are saying, what they are thinking and how they are feeling. This
helps us to be more effective in a professional and personal context.
Facial Expressions: The way you express emotion through your face conveys how you feel and how you are responding to
others. You should practice using a variety of expressions that convey your intended feeling or message. You can practice
your facial expressions in the mirror to see what you look like. Remember that your facial expressions should always reflect
the feelings of the person you are in conversation with. For example, if someone is sharing that they feel sad, it would be
inappropriate to smile. Instead, you would listen them with a neutral, understanding facial expression.
Eye Contact: Eye contact shows that you are engaged in conversation; it demonstrates that you are actively listening to
what the speaker is saying. It also shows that you are confident. Try to maintain natural and friendly eye contact with
others. Ensure that you look relaxed when you are making eye contact; being too intense, or staring, can be perceived as
intimidating or rude.
Body Language: Your body language says a lot about how you are feeling or responding to something. For example, if you
stand with crossed arms, you are signalling resistance. Instead, try to stand upright with your arms by your side. This
conveys openness. Body language includes your posture, movements, positioning and gestures; these are all things you
should be aware of as you listen or speak.
Tone of Voice: The tone of your voice can affect how your message is received by others. For example, if you speak with an
overly loud tone, people might think you are angry or annoyed. Instead, be aware of how you speak. Try to speak with a
clear and confident tone. Your tone of voice should reflect the context of your communication; this means that you need
to think about the message you are trying to get across, and which tone of voice would deliver the message appropriately.
Identify Nervous Habits: Lots of us display our nervousness through our body language. For example, you may tap your
foot, play with a nearby object or twist your fingers. These are obvious signs of nervousness that other people will pick up
on. If you identify these signs, you can learn to control them. Practicing deep breathing exercises can also help us manage
our nerves.
Be Open to Feedback: It is always useful to ask friends, colleagues, mentors and family members for feedback about non-
verbal communication. They may be able to make suggestions to help you improve aspects of your non-verbal
communication that you had no considered yourself. Remember not to take this feedback as criticism - instead understand
that feedback gives you an opportunity to learn and grow!
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