Non-verbal Communication

Non-verbal Communication

• It refers to an interaction where behavior is used to convey and represent meanings.
• It classifies all kinds of human responses that are not expressed in words.
• Some examples of these human responses are:
  • stares
  • smiles
  • tone of voice
  • manners of walking/standing/sitting
  • appearance
  • style of attire
  • attitude towards punctuality and space
  • personality

Importance

• Non-verbal communication is important because:
  • It enhances and emphasizes the message of your speech.
    • In return, it makes it more meaningful, truthful, and relevant.
  • It allows us to communicate feelings, attitudes, and perceptions without you saying a word.
  • It can keep listeners engaged and sustain their attention.
  • It allows the audience to see what type of speaker you are.
  • It makes you appear more dynamic and animated as you deliver.
  • It can serve as a channel to release tension and nervousness.
  • It makes your speech more dramatic.
  • It helps you build connection with listeners.
  • It makes you sound more credible.
  • It helps you vary your speaking style.
    • It also allows you to avoid a monotonous delivery.

Types

• There are 5 types of non-verbal communication: proxemics, kinesics, chronemics, haptics, and paralanguage.
  • Proxemics: the study of man’s use of perception of his space.
  • Kinesics: the study of the body’s physical movements.
  • Chronemics: the study of how human beings communicate through the use of time.
  • Haptics: refers to how people and animals communicate via their sense of touch.
  • Paralanguage: refers to all aspects of voice that are strictly not part of the verbal message.
    • This includes: tone, pitch, speed and volume of delivery, and pauses and hesitations between words.