Intro
Part A
Listening
Part B
Body Language
Part C
Verbal Communication
Part D
Problem Solving
Effective Words
Communicating With Parents
Electronic Communication
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Part B: 6 Keys to Effective Body Language
- Staging: Sit at an angle to the other
person about 1-1/2 to 2 feet apart. Most North Americans are comfortable at this
distance. Too far apart is as unsettling as too near, while face to face can feel
confrontational. Avoid touching a person who is angry because it can inflame them. A
consoling arm on the shoulder in this circumstance will seem condescending.
- Posture: Maintain a relaxed and open
posture, no crossed arms, legs or hands. If you are relaxed it will calm the person
to whom you are speaking. Folded arms or a rigid body says you are angry or unreceptive.
- Attention: Give your undivided attention.
Remove anything that you might fiddle with. Distractions like chewing gum, smoking, eating,
playing with a pen or answering the phone are disrespectful. They give the impression you
are not concerned or are not listening.
- Countenance: Keep a calm, open expression.
Facial expressions are powerful communicators. A scowl or an inappropriate smile can send
the wrong message.
- Eye Contact: Making eye contact shows that
you are attentive. Too little and you appear disinterested. Too much or too intense
and you come off as aggressive. Eye rolling gives the message that you are annoyed or
impatient and some people view eye rolling as extremely disrespectful.
- Intonation: Speak with a calm, firm, yet
soothing tone. You will project yourself as self-confident. In turn your listener
will have confidence in you. Be aware that your voice does not sound annoyed, impatient or
condescending. Finally, avoid sighing. Often it is interpreted as annoyance or impatience.
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