Nonverbal Communication

Introduction

Nonverbal communication can mean a lot of different things, and all of them are important in being an effective communicator. The most obvious forms of nonverbal communication are body language and gestures, and we will look specifically at these. Additionally, physical appearance, touching, and even design choices can be used to communicate a number of things about a person.

Defining Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication is nearly anything that sends an idea from one person to another without the use of words.

It is important to keep in mind the fact that cultural norms define a lot about nonverbal communication. Personal space, eye contact, and touching are just a few of the nonverbal tools that mean different things in different cultures. In the United States, for example, it is considered polite to maintain quite a bit of eye contact when speaking to a superior. In many Asian cultures, however, this would be seen as disrespectful. The ideas in this section are based primarily on what is considered appropriate in North America.