Non-verbal Communication Essay

Submitted By jtrofort
Words: 934
Pages: 4

Communication. It is the very basis and foundation of our daily routine. As humans, communication is essential in how we function and carry out our lives. Whether communicating ideas or just having conversation with a loved one, we use two main types every day; verbal and non-verbal communication. In essence, when we speak our thoughts or engage in conversation, we are displaying verbal communication. A simple definition we can all relate to and remember. Five main principles help give more depth to verbal communication. The first: language and cultural background. Every language is different and unique in the way they communicate. Example: A formal greeting for one nationality might consist of a simple phrase or so where another culture group might just use one word to communicate the same effect. The second and third principle tie in with each other. Language is subjective and the person communicating is an important factor. When we are communicating verbally, it requires us to constantly analyze the conversation we are in. Words and their definitions are constantly changing and keeping tabs on this and listening to what the other is saying is key. The person communicating is equally as important in this case as well. A superior at work and your co-worker may both have the same message to deliver to you, but when you receive them they may translate as two completely separate ideas. Rules being placed for language is our fourth principle. Two rules exist in this space. The first is regulation. To keep it simple, there is a place and time for everything. Presentation is key and how we act and behave when we communicate all play hand and hand. The second rule is constitutive. How is it that we interpret communication and signals? A smile is such a simple gesture, yet when we see a smile, emotions of happiness and being pleasant are read. In the same way, hugs and kisses both show forms of compassion, love and comfort. The last principle is punctuation: The beginning and ending of communication. Our moods, gestures and tones all dictate the emotion we are feeling at that time. The type of punctuation we attach when we communicate can show whether or not we are angry, happy or even not interested (Dales, 2010). Though we use verbal communication probably the most on average, non-verbal communication still holds a strong place in how we communicate daily. Listening is the key to non-verbal communication. As with verbal communication, five principles help classify and define non-verbal communication.
From our reading of “Communicating in the Workplace”, we come to stumble upon these principles. Paying attention would be our first principle for non-verbal communication. Being an attentive listener will determine the outcome of the conversation. This transitions in to being an opportunist (principle two). Listening gives us all the opportunity to evaluate what is being said, and engage in a thought process to where we can find solutions, even come up with advice and network. The third principle is the ability to make mental notes. Having a good memory is key in the non-verbal process. Remembering key points and ideas shows we are actually listening and being able to keep important points in mind is key for the transition in to principle four, exchange of feedback. On average when we are put into the listener’s role, we are required to give an opinion on the subject that was discussed. Having combined all previous values, you can go on to the final step of non-verbal communication: response. Now that we have listened, remembered the basis behind the conversation and have ideas on how to approach, we transition in to verbal communication and can respond and add