Techniques for Improving nonverbal skills

The words that we say in conversation is minimal comparing to the non verbal communicate we send.
Your body language, gestures, tone plays a vital role in how you present. It is important to say the right words with the right gesture that accompanies.

Example: When a boss wants to congratulate an employee for a "great job" he/she has done. Boss will be happy and may give a thumps up that accompanies the saying "GREAT JOB".
Imagine if boss says "great job" while looking away or being sad. How does it feel?

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Below are the essential tips that determine to improve nonverbal skills at workplace:

1.      Establish and maintain eye contact.

People often avoid eye contact when listening to the speaker; this is the most embarrassing situation for the speaker because he/she may feel rejected. Appropriate eye contact signals interest, attentiveness, strength and credibility. However, staring constantly may be harmful.

2.     Use posture to show interest.

It is advisable to show positive signs through your body reactions to encourage the speaker. For example, leaning forward, sitting or standing erect and looking alert encourages communication.
Getting in right positing will automatically make you feel good and confident. 

3.     Reduce or eliminate physical barriers.

Avoid any physical distraction when having conversation or listening. This will show your participation and involvement. Eliminate all the devices, blocks that come in between you and the other person. 

4.     Improve your decoding skills.

Always watch out other facial expressions and body language to better understand the complete verbal and nonverbal message being communicated. Sometimes the speaker may send nonverbal cues dissimilar to the verbal, therefore evaluate to improvise your decoding skills.

5.     Probe / Investigate for more information.

It is recommended that it’s better to seek additional cues politely whenever you perceive nonverbal cues that contradict verbal message. Asking questions show that you are committed and engaged with the entire conversation. Example, asking: “Please tell me about…”

6.     Avoid assigning nonverbal meaning out of content.

Do not interpret nonverbal signs without having proper knowledge of cues and culture because different signs signify differently.

7.     Appreciate with people from diverse cultures.

Learning has no end therefore learn about other traditions and culture to widen your knowledge, experience, and tolerance of intercultural nonverbal signs.

8.     Appreciate the power of appearance.

Organizing your business documents, table, cabin shows send positive vibes to others. It often shows how responsible you are. Physical proximity is beneficial however; the space between you and the other person should be the length of your arm, i.e. 3-4 feet at workplace.

9.     Observe yourself on videotape.

As we learn from mistakes; ensure that your verbal and nonverbal messages are in synchronization by taping and evaluating yourself making a real scenario.

10.  Enlist friends and family.

Your nearest ones can give judgement guidance therefore ask your friends and family members to monitor your conscious and unconscious body movements and gestures to help you become a more effective communicator.

Refer to more tips and techniques.

Reference: 

• Mary E. G., D. L. (n.d.). Business Communication: Process & Product (Fourth Brief Canadian ed.). Nelson Education Ltd.