Unspoken Messages
Nonverbal communication covers many items: posture, body language, gestures, expressions, eye contact, motions, use of personal space, dress and grooming, and more - it's fundamentally everything except the spoken message. Nonverbal communication is constant: it occurs when you are speaking, when you are listening, and even when you are present.
Moreover, most nonverbal communication is done unconsciously - by people who are careless or not self-aware - and may contradict what you intend to convey. It can also cause confusion: if a person smiles and nods while you're speaking, then disagrees with what you've said, they will probably seem disingenuous and untrustworthy.
Some examples:
- Crossed arms (or legs), fist-like gestures, and pointing with the index fingers are hostile gestures that connote defensiveness and confrontation
- A tilted head, stroking one's chin, and peering over spectacles indicate reflection
- A sideways glance, touching one's nose, or squinting indicate suspiciousness
- Hands that are open or crossed, or held behind the back, indicate openness and cooperation
- Pencil-chewing, hands in pockets, and fidgeting indicate insecurity and nervousness
Monitor and tailor your own body language to send a positive message or support your verbal communication, and be aware of the body language of others to "read" their reaction and adjust your approach.
EN: Posture and gesture are often the effects of culture. While the author has not crossed the line here, she's toeing the edge.