Non-verbal communication

1. Non-verbal communication Frida Gardberg 13.11.2004

2. Non-verbal communication • Introduction to non-verbal communication • Comparing verbal and non-verbal communication • The universal use of non-verbal communication • Non-verbal codes

3. Introduction to non-verbal communication • in communication with others only 30 % of the communication is verbal, 70 % is non-verbal • non-verbal communication involves gestures, facial expressions, eye contact … • our non-verbal behaviour is mostly subconscious

4. Comparing verbal and non-verbal communication • both are symbolic, communicate meaning and are patterned • all societies have different non-verbal languages • the non-verbal communication is more than just body language; the use of time and personal space, our voice etc.

5. Comparing verbal and non-verbal communication • non-verbal communication is learnt through relations with others • non-verbal behaviours can reinforce, substitute for or contradict verbal behaviour • we often trust our non-verbal behaviour to reveal our true feelings

6. The universal use of non-verbal communication • there is some universality in non-verbal communication, especially in facial expressions • six basic emotions are communicated by facial expressions in much the same way in most societies: • happiness, sadness, disgust, fear, anger and surprise • but what causes the non-verbal behaviours can vary • there are also variations in the rules for non-verbal behaviour

7. Non-verbal codes • PROXEMICS how people use personal space; to keep someone at the right distance • contact cultures and non-contact cultures • KINESIC BEHAVIOUR body posture, hand gestures, facial expressions and eye contact • CHRONEMICS the use of time • M-time (Monochronic) and P-time (Polychronic)

8. Non-verbal codes • SILENCE the use of silence in conversations • HAPTICS the use of touching • high-touch cultures and low-touch cultures • VOCAL CUES rate, pitch, loudness, articulation, tone, accent, pronunciation etc. • ARTEFACTS things, objects, decorations etc.

9. Conclusion • misunderstandings can be avoided if we are aware of and understand our cultural differences • non-verbal communication changes also constantly

10. And always remember: • the more we know of other cultures, the greater the possibility is of a successful communication!

11. Thank you for listening!