Non-verbal Communication in Business Communication Explained

While the ability to write well is a desired professional skill, the ability to speak well is the cornerstone of effective communication. Effective orators often communicate well through their body language. In fact, many studies suggest that a person is judged within minutes based on their body language and mannerisms. 

Now, how does a leader communicate effectively through non-verbal cues? In the next video, let’s hear from David as he explains non-verbal communication in detail.

As you learnt in this video, non-verbal communication or the mechanics of communication deals with reinforcing your verbal communication with body language. Non-verbal communication typically conveys the emotions associated with the message that you are delivering. 

As an observer, you can interpret non-verbal communication as an indicator of the relationship among people or how your recipients/audience are reacting to your message. Non-verbal communication can amplify your verbal communication. 

In the following video, David will discuss the major modes for communicating non-verbally.

Non-verbal communication is diverse in usage and application. The optimum usage of non-verbal communication or the ‘mechanics’ of communication varies according to each business scenario.

Instead of discussing verbal communication, written communication and non-verbal communication in isolation, the subsequent sessions will discuss how each of these types of communication has a role to play depending on the context and objective of the communication scenario. Thus, they have to be utilised in the right manner in each scenario for being effective.

Additional Learning

• Your body language may shape who you are by Amy Cuddy (TED)

• There are many resources and guidelines for effectively using non-verbal communication. You can refer to such an article here, covering the non-verbal cues that convey confidence at work.