Using nonverbal communication everyday
At a very young age children are taught how to communicate verbally and briefly go over how to communicate nonverbally . According to (Adler, R. B., Elmhorst, J. M., & Lucas, K. 2013) nonverbal communication is messages expressed without words. Some people have the impression that communication is all about talking. Those people are greatly mistaken. Being aware of how you communicate nonverbally and how to communicate well nonverbally will make a great impact on your success in the workplace.
Although we may not realize we communicate nonverbally all the time.From our facial expression, eyes , movements ,and even the way we look. We are sending different messages about ourselves all the time. These are called nonverbal cues .In fact our first impression isn’t just based on the conversation we have with someone ,it also centers around our nonverbal cues big and small .
How nonverbal communication is used in the workplace
Non verbal communication is a very powerful tool to use in the workplace (Adler, R. B., Elmhorst, J. M., & Lucas, K. 2013) .For instance, face to face interaction We need to be completely in tune with our actions because you don’t want to give off the wrong impression. Especially in meetings with your coworkers and most importantly one on one time with your clients.
Your nonverbal communication also affects your work relationships(Adler, R. B., Elmhorst, J. M., & Lucas, K. 2013) .Some of the relationships you make in your place of work can be the relationships that possibly help you advance in your career. For example ,when your boss gives you a job you want to convey that you're confident in getting it done. If you come off as unsure or timid they might be compelled to give the task to someone else . Knowing that can be a lot of pressure that’s why learning early on is very important. You want to be prepared for opportunities like job interviews ,presentations and many others . Sometimes we forget that we aren’t only being analyzed by what we are saying we’re also judged on their non verbal cues
For example, when you first meet someone they might be dressed professionally .To you what may come across that they are professional and hardworking. Then we have things like facial expressions and their eyes . They could have a serious expression on their face. Now you’ve made the interpretation that they’re serious and about their business. Next to be evaluated is posture. Any nonverbal behavior has the potential to communicate meaning (Bonaccio, Silvia, et al.,1045). Sitting as if you’re relaxed and unimpressed is not a good look. You want to convey that you're paying attention. Eye contact ,posture, handshake , and dressing the part are all areas we should work on in order to appear confident at work (Smith, J. 2014, June 09). Some scholars have also gone as far to say that power posing can help in the workplace.
Additionally, your nonverbal cues can also be helpful to your employers and clients . Sometimes we’re often shy about our needs and wants at work. People often feel they will come across as needy or wanting too much. Our nonverbal cues often convey the messages we don’t want to verbally (Smith, J. 2014, June 09). Knowing how to read nonverbal cues can also help when it comes to clients.That extra eye contact of expressions of interest could make your clients feel better about doing business with you. They feel heard and included. Let’s face it no matter what career path you follow you're going to have someone who will be a consumer. The cliche “The customer is always right “ isn’t entirely wrong .Knowing how to understand your clients beyond what they say verbally can significantly improve your business.
Challenges that arise without proper nonverbal communication
Without proper nonverbal communication skills in the workplace there can be a lot of misunderstandings. This could easily be avoided with just a little knowledge on the subject.As mentioned before your nonverbal communication centers around facial expressions, eyes , body movements, and even appearance. All of these methods can be misinterpreted. Knowing how to properly communicate nonverbally in certain environments is also very important. For example, An employee is from an area where eye contact is a sign of respect. The employee tends to use this as a strategy when conducting business. If the employee goes somewhere prolonged eye contact is frowned upon to do business this strategy won't work and could even cause problems with the client. According to Bonaccio, Silvia, et al., Nonverbal behavior displays and the meaning attached to them depend on biological and cultural origins (1046).
Importance of nonverbal communication
No one wants to be that person that was completely qualified ,but didn’t get the job because of your nonverbal cues.Being verbal can get you halfway ,but you will need the knowledge of nonverbal communication to get to where you want to be. Don’t forget this information can be used in any career path. If your communication at your workplace is off or your business communication skills aren’t the best .Perfecting your nonverbal communication could help more than you think .
After reading one might be surprised by how our nonverbal communication affects us on a daily,especially in the workplace. No matter what position you're in improving and recognizing non verbal cues can benefit you .
Citations
Smith, J. (2014, June 09). 10 Nonverbal Cues That Convey Confidence At Work. Retrieved June 10, 2020, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2013/03/11/10-nonverbal-cues-that-convey-confidence-at-work/
Adler, R. B., Elmhorst, J. M., & Lucas, K. (2013). Communicating at work: Strategies for success in business and the professions. New York: McGraw-Hill
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Bonaccio, Silvia, et al. “Nonverbal Behavior and Communication in the Workplace: A Review and an Agenda for Research.” Journal of Management, vol. 42, no. 5, 2016, pp. 1044–1074., doi:10.1177/0149206315621146.
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