Benefit of Nonverbal Communication in Business

               Nonverbal communication encompasses numerous modes of expression. Physical examples include posture, gestures, eye contact, touch, physiological responses (such as clammy hands or a sweaty brow) and manner of movement. Clothing and adornment choices can also be a form of nonverbal communication. Because business often involves frequent human interaction, understanding the elements of nonverbal communication can be an enormous benefit in terms of working with colleagues, competitors, clients and potential clients.

Uses

Knowledge of nonverbal communication in business plays two roles. Managers use nonverbal communication to effectively lead other employees and team members. And team members in the business, whether they realize it or not, use nonverbal cues to communicate information to individuals outside the business, whether they’re clients, competitors or colleagues in a complementary industry.

Effects

In business, nonverbal communication can affirm or belie the words actually being spoken. Communication can be hindered when nonverbal cues seem to contradict what’s being said. When verbal and nonverbal communication messages act in concert, information is communicated more effectively.

Examples

Nonverbal communication in business occurs on a daily basis. Cooperating people tend to sit side by side, while competitors will frequently face one another. Crossed legs or folded arms during a business meeting may signify relaxation or resistance to the ideas being presented. Eye contact with a speaker during a business meeting communicates interest, and a manager in a company may maintain eye contact longer than a subordinate employee does. Tactile communication can help or hinder business interactions. A firm handshake might be interpreted as confidence, while other physical touches, such as a lingering touch on the shoulder, might be seen as invasive of personal space.

Benefits

Business owners can gain from learning about nonverbal communication and its potential benefits. Nonverbal communication can increase the opportunity to interact with colleagues, competitors, clients and potential clients through avenues outside of explicit word choice. Posture, vocal tone and eye contact can deliver subtle messages that reinforce what’s being said to convey consistency and trustworthiness. Another benefit is that nonverbal communication can help demonstrate confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism through attire choice, active listening cues and the ability to present a message. Nonverbal communication can play a special role in international business settings, where even with the aid of translators there may be a natural wariness about the accuracy of intentions, details or offers revealed.

Approaches

Practice beneficial nonverbal communication through effective eye contact while giving a presentation to large groups of people by alternating various approaches. Scan the audience, make eye contact with different areas of the audience or make four- to five-second eye contact with individual audience members. Rather than standing in one spot during the presentation, stroll around the stage naturally.