Communication Applications

1. CommunicationApplications Chapter 5 Understanding Nonverbal Communication

2. Principles of Nonverbal Communication • Section 1 Objectives • 1. Describe nonverbal communications. • 2. Explain the functions of nonverbal communication. • 3. Describe the characteristics of nonverbal communication. • Nonverbal Communication is defined as a system of symbolic behaviors that includes all forms of communication except words.

3. Functions of Nonverbal Communication • Relates to Verbal Communication • Reinforces - nonverbal messages support the verbal message. • Contradicts – nonverbal messages do not support the verbal message. • Substitutes – stands in for a verbal message • Conveys Emotional & Relationship Dimensions • Feelings – showing your feelings without actually saying the words. • Relationships – showing a relationship without actually saying the words.

4. Characteristics of Nonverbal Communication • Subconscious – we are not usually aware of the messages we send nonverbally. • A person is frowning. • Contextual – it depends on the situation in which it occurred. • They may be concentrating on passing a test. • Ambiguous – open to interpretation and often confusing. • You may think that they are in a bad mood. • Cultural – a nonverbal message in one culture may send a different message in another culture. • Your tone of voice or eye contact.

5. Using Nonverbal Communication to Create a Professional Image • Section 2 Objectives • 1. Explain how nonverbal skills can convey the confidence, poise, assertiveness, and immediacy needed for a positive image in professional and social contexts. • 2. Describe the types of nonverbal communication and their possible effects. • 3. Describe the four characteristics of voice. • 4. Recognize the importance of effective nonverbal strategies such as a firm handshake, direct eye contact, and appropriate use of space and distance.

6. Confidence – a strong voice and an attentive and positive attitude Poise – the ability to “read” any situation and respond appropriately, they “keep their cool” Assertiveness – confident of yourself and your opinions or beliefs and are not afraid to take a stand when necessary Immediacy – perceived by others as approachable, friendly, and open Characteristics of a Positive Professional Image

7. Types of Nonverbal Communication • Voice • Pitch Tone • Range Pause • Volume Inflection • Body Talk • Posture Movement • Dress Grooming • Eye contact Facial • Environmental Cues • Touch Distance • Time Fragrance • Space Odor

8. Voice as Nonverbal Communication • Characteristics of Voice • Pitch – highness or lowness of sound on a musical scale • High, medium, or low. • Range – Highest to lowest • Inflection – rising and falling of pitch • Volume – how loud or soft • Tone – a specific vocal quality • Duration • Rate – how fast or slow a person speaks • Tempo – the rhythmic quality of a person’s speech

9. Cues that Accompany Speech • Pauses – a short period of nonverbal communication • Silence – longer period of nonverbal communication • Laughter – it can be funny or cruel • Vocalizations – sighs, whines, or throat clearing.

10. Body Talk as Nonverbal Communication • Personal Appearance • Dress – how you dress can influence the way others see you • Grooming – shows others if you take pride in your appearance • Hair and Face • Kinesics – nonverbal messages we send with our bodies • Posture – how you sit or stand • Muscular Tone & Tension – Are you “uptight” or “relaxed”? • Be aware of what you are saying with your body.

11. Movement– aka “gait” – the way you walk or move from one place to another. • Don’t shuffle or drag your feet • Gestures – a movement of any part of the body that reinforces another message or acts as a substitute for speech. • Tapping your foot, nodding your head • Facial Communication – facial expressions may last just a split second, but can communicate a whole lot about your feelings • Making and keeping eye contact is an important aspect of body talk.

12. Environmental Cues as Nonverbal Communication • Spatial Communication – your perception and use of space – the way you use space and distance is highly personal. • Intimate Distance – up to eighteen inches from your body, communication in this space is very personal • Personal Distance – from eighteen inches to four feet from the body, your own space to move freely • Social Distance – four feet to twelve feet from the body • Public Distance – twelve feet to twenty-five feet from the body, public speaking • Fit your use of space to the context of the situation.

13. Territory – people will identify a space or territory, “your” desk. • Sometimes hostilities can develop over territories that have been violated by others. • How you use and maintain your territory can send a variety of messages about you. • Organized – everything in it’s place • Disorganized – everything everywhere • Welcome – make visitors relax • Not Welcome – no personal touch • Touch – use the appropriate touch for the context of the situation. • Firm handshake, but don’t hold on too long

14. Time Communication • Sending Messages with Time-if you are always late, you appear to not care • Time Management-everyone has the same 24 hour day • Arrange your day into “slices” of time (figure 5-6 pg 161) • Learn to say “No” when you need to do so

15. Artifacts – articles of adornment you use to decorate yourself or your surroundings • Jewelry, clothes, pictures, etc… • Objects – all the materials you keep in your space or take with you • Backpack, purse, notebook, etc… • Color – it is used to grab attention or to convey a feeling • Red will grab attention • Green and brown are soothing • Fragrance and Odor – smell is believed to provide most direct link to emotions • Scented candles, air fresheners, perfume, etc… can bring to mind memories or relax you