Communication skills are an increasingly important issue for all aspects of life whether it be in relation to personal or workplace relationships. The ability to actively listen to others and understand non-verbal aspects of communication such as facial expressions, gestures and using props is crucial to be able to work as a team or function effectively with the workplace environment.

Understanding Body Language

Whether one recognises it or not, around half of communication is expressed through the use of non-verbal methods such as body language. This is important for all aspects of work and is especially relevant when giving presentations, speaking in meetings and undertaking negotiations. For example if what a person is saying is being contradicted by his or her body language then it will come across as a lack of confidence or belief in what is being shared thus limiting the possibility of communicating effectively or achieving successful outcomes.

When non-verbal and verbal forms of communication are correctly used together this may enhance the message and make what one is saying far more powerful as well as much easier to comprehend. Therefore, identifying the aspects of verbal expression which relate to forms of body language has a big impact in terms of effective communication.

How Body Language Compliments Verbal Communication

There are a range of different ways in which forms of body language may compliment verbal communication. An example is when a person wishes to reinforce something he or she may use a thumbs up or repeat a key phrase whilst holding hands out. Another example is when one is praising another person it may be enhanced through smiling and nodding or patting them on the shoulder. In order to emphasise a point a speaker may nod the head frequently or underline words on a flip-chart or white board.