A Detailed Description of Non Verbal Communications by the First Year

Student of B.A. LL. B (Hons.)

Shreya Singh

Course name : B.A. LL. B (Hons.)

Subject: English

Semester: 1

Roll No.: 143

Sec.: `A'

Supervisor

Dr. Vimal Kumar Vishwakarma

Assistant Professor of English

DHARAMASHASTRA NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY

Jabalpur (M.P.)
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to thank to Dharamashastra National Law University, because of which I got
this chance to be a part of DNLU family.

I present my gratitude to our Vice-Chancellor Mr. Balraj Chauhan who represents the
foundation of our University.

I would like to give special gratitude of thanks to my teacher Dr. Vimal Kumar
Vishwakarma, who provided me with the opportunity to work on this project.

This research provided me with ample knowledge and learning about ‘A Detailed
Description of Nonverbal communications’ and I am thankful that I got this project that
enhanced my grip on a particular topic.
 ABSTRACT

Communication in general is process of sending and receiving messages that enables

humans to share knowledge, attitudes, and skills. Although we usually identify
communication with speech, communication is composed of two dimensions - verbal and
nonverbal. In this project the main focus will be on nonverbal communication.

Nonverbal Communication has been defined as communication without words. It

includes apparent behaviors such as facial expressions, eyes, touching, and tone of voice,
as well as less obvious messages such as dress, posture and spatial distance between two
or more people.

Everything communicates, including material objects, physical space, and time systems.
Although verbal output can be turned off, nonverbal cannot. Even silence speaks.

Nonverbal communication refers to gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, eye

contact (or lack thereof), body language, posture, and other ways people can
communicate without using language. When you’re interviewing for a job or
participating in a meeting, your nonverbal communication is almost as important as your
verbal responses.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is communication

1.2 What are the types of communication

1.3 What is Nonverbal communication

1.4 Why is nonverbal communication important

2. Chapter 2

TYPES OF NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION

 Body Language
 Movement
 Posture
 Gestures
 Space
 Paralanguage
 Facial Expressions
 Eye Contact
 Touch

3. Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
3.1 How to read body language
 Posture
 Use of arms
 Use of legs
 Use of facial expressions
 3.2 How to improve nonverbal communication
 Do a body language test
 Notice how your emotions feel physically

 Be intentional about your nonverbal communications

 Mimic nonverbal communications you find effective
 Nonverbal communication is an essential part of having excellent
communication skills
3.3 Communication Skills Examples

4. Chapter 4
CONCLUSION

5. Chapter 5
BIBLIOGRAPHY

CHAPTER 1
 INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is communication

According to McFarland, “Communication is a process of meaningful interactions

among human beings. More specifically it is a process by which meanings are perceived
and understandings are reached among humans”. It can also be defined as an exchange
of facts, ideas, opinions or emotions by two or more individuals. In an organisation
communication facilitates the flow of information and understanding between different
people and departments through different media using all the channels and networks.

This flow of information is vital for managerial effectiveness and decision making in
general. We communicate for various reasons, like to share information, share our
feelings and opinions, ask questions, express wants and needs and to develop social
relationships, etc. Communication is much more than words, it constitutes gestures.
Communication thus helps understand people better removing misunderstanding and
creating clarity of thoughts and expression. It also educates people. The communication
may be written or oral, formal, informal, and upward, downward, interpersonal, inter
organisational or public. Interaction and a need to be heard are as much a part of human
nature as our need to associate with others and fulfilling our goals.

Forming social relations are integral to our lives and it can be achieved only through
communication. We desire for broadening our horizon of thinking, we have to
communicate at a certain level. Curiosity is inherent in human nature and only an
effective information exchange can serve this purpose. There are innumerable reasons for
communication between humans, hence, we must lay emphasis on the importance to
study and research on the same, in order to establish a well-connected society.

1.2 What are the types of communication

There are 2 basic types of communications:

 Verbal Communication
 Non-Verbal Communication

 Verbal Communication :-
The communication happens through verbally, vocally or through written words which
express or convey the message to other is called verbal communication.

Example: Baby crying (vocal) is verbal communication which express the hungry or pain
through vocally.

Verbal communication has two types:-

A. Oral Communication

B. Written Communication

A. Oral Communication:-
 A communication which happens through word of mouth, spoken words,
conversations and also any messages or information are shared or exchanged between
one another through speech or word of mouth is called oral communication.
Example: Public speech, News reading, Television, Radio, telephone and mobile
conversations.
 B. Written Communication:-
A communication happens through any word written or often written sign which refers
the languages uses in any medium is called written communication.
Example:  Simply any hand written, typed, Newspaper, printed word documents,
letters, books and magazines.1

 Non-Verbal Communication:-
Any communication without word of mouth, spoken words, conversation and written
languages are called Non-Verbal Communication. It happens through signs, symbols,
colours, gestures, body language or any facial expressions are known as non verbal
communication. Traffic signals are one of the best examples for non verbal
communication.

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 1.3What is Non-Verbal communications.

The Non-Verbal Communication is the process of conveying meaning without the use of
words either written or spoken. In other words, any communication made between two or
more persons through the use of facial expressions, hand movements, body language,
postures, and gestures is called as non-verbal communication. The Non-Verbal
Communication, unlike the verbal communication, helps in establishing and maintaining
the interpersonal relationships while the verbal only help in communicating the external
events. People use non-verbal to express emotions and interpersonal attitudes, conduct
rituals such as greetings and bring forward one’s personality.

The non-verbal communication in the form of signals, expressions add meaning with the
verbal communication help people to communicate more efficiently. It supplements
whatever is said in words, such as people nod to acknowledge and move their hands to
give directions.

The non-verbal communication defines the distance between the communicators and
helps them to exchange their emotional state of mind. Also, it regulates the flow of
communication, for example, an individual can give signals to convey that he had
finished speaking or else he wants to speak.

Sometimes, the non-verbal acts as a barrier to communicating effectively as the recipient

could not understand what the sender is trying to say and may interpret it wrongly.2

1.4 Why is nonverbal communication important?

Nonverbal communication is important because it gives us valuable information about a

situation including how a person might be feeling, how someone receives information
and how to approach a person or group of people. Paying attention to and developing the
ability to read nonverbal communications is an invaluable skill you can leverage at every
stage of your career.

There are several ways nonverbal communication can support your ability to
communicate effectively in the workplace, including:

 Supports your message. When having a conversation, participating in a meeting

or engaging in conversation, nonverbal cues can emphasize and underscore the
content of your message. For example, using hand gestures to indicate the
importance of an idea may tell your listeners to pay attention to and remember a
key point.

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https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/nonverbal-communication.html
  Communicates messages. You may also use nonverbal communication
completely to communicate with others. For example, if someone is explaining a
sentiment you admire and agree with, you might nod your head up and down to
express solidarity.
 Communicates intention. Your body language may also intentionally or
unintentionally express your current condition. For example, people may pick up
nonverbal cues that you are being dishonest, unengaged, excited or aggressive.
 Conveys feelings. You can also use nonverbal communication to show your
feelings, such as disappointment, relief, happiness, contentment and more.
 Offers support. Nonverbal cues are also a great way to show support. Whether it's
a simple smile or pat on the back, action may speak louder than words in many
cases.
 Showcases your personality. Nonverbal communication is a great way to show
who you are. For example, a kind and optimistic person might frequently smile
with open body language and offer friendly touches.
 Indicates a desired action. This might include inching toward a door to indicate
your desire to leave the room, raising your hand to offer an idea or putting your
hand out to meet someone new.

 Deescalates tension. Using a calm tone of voice, open body language, and

directive gestures may help to resolve a difficult situation3

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 CHAPTER 2

Types of nonverbal communication

There are several types of nonverbal communications you should be aware of, including:

1. Body language

Body language is the way someone situates their body naturally depending on the
situation, the environment and how they are feeling.

Example: Someone might cross their arms if they are feeling angry or nervous.

2. Movement

The way you move your arms and legs such as walking quickly or slowly, standing,
sitting or fidgeting, can all convey different messages to onlookers.
Example: Sitting still and paying attention in a meeting conveys respect and attention.

3. Posture

The way you sit or stand can also communicate your comfort level, professionalism and
general disposition towards a person or conversation.

Example: Someone might slouch their shoulders if they feel tired, frustrated or

disappointed.
4. Gestures

While gestures vary widely across communities, they are generally used both
intentionally and unintentionally to convey information to others.

Example: Someone in the United States might display a “thumbs up” to communicate

confirmation or that they feel positively about something.

5. Space

Creating or closing distance between yourself and the people around you can also convey
messages about your comfort level, the importance of the conversation, your desire to
support or connect with others and more.

Example: You might stand two to three feet away from a new contact to respect their
boundaries.4

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6. Paralanguage:

Paralanguage includes the non-language elements of speech, such as your talking speed,
pitch, intonation, volume and more. These qualities are very important in debates and
speeches.

Example: You might speak quickly if you are excited about something.

7. Facial expressions

One of the most common forms of nonverbal communication is facial expressions. Using
the eyebrows, mouth, eyes and facial muscles to convey can be very effective when
communicating both emotion and information.
Example: Someone might raise their eyebrows and open their eyes widely if they feel
surprised.

8. Eye contact

Strategically using eye content (or lack of eye contact) is an extremely effective way to
communicate your attention and interest. When a person talk he try to maintain a eye
contact which shows that he is confident and is willing to listen effectively.

Example: Looking away from someone and at the ground or your phone may convey
disinterest or disrespect.
9. Touch

Some people also use touch as a form of communication. Most commonly, it is used to
communicate support or comfort. This form of communication should be used sparingly
and only when you know the receiving party is okay with it. It should never be used to
convey anger, frustration or any other negative emotions.

Example: Placing your hand on a friend’s shoulder may convey support or empathy.5

5
https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-nonverbal-communication-2795397
6
https://myalcomy.com/body-language-blog/oxytocin-touch
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

There are several common skills that make you a valuable colleague, leader and
teammate. These skills are also highly desired by employers you may interview with that
fall into four main categories:

 Paying attention. While it seems simple, the ability to stay engaged is an essential

skill that can help you learn quickly and communicate effectively.

 Picking up on nonverbal cues. It becomes easier to pick up on both small and

obvious, intentional and unintentional nonverbal communication when you
practice. Pay attention to people’s posture, movements, body language, facial
expressions and eye contact as they change.

 Interpreting nonverbal cues. Once you can more easily and accurately spot
nonverbal cues, you can learn to interpret them to be a better communicator.

For example, if you notice that someone is speaking quietly with slouched
shoulders or crossed arms, it may be a cue that they feel nervous or anxious. You
can respond empathetically by smiling and holding a warm and open body posture.

 Using nonverbal cues. It is equally important to develop your own use of

nonverbal cues to support your professional skills and to control any unproductive
or unprofessional communications in the workplace. More on improving your
nonverbal communication skills below.

3.1 How to read body language

Reading body language is a difficult skill you will continue to develop throughout your
career. While each person uses nonverbal communication differently, there are several
common cues to pay attention to that will inform you about a person’s feelings,
intentions, motivations and more. When you are communicating with someone, it’s
helpful to notice their body language while also taking in their verbal communication.

Here are a few uses of body language you can begin to look for:

1. Posture

If a person has their shoulders back and spine straight, this is a sign that they are engaged,
listening and open to the ideas or information you are presenting. If they are exhibiting
poor posture with their shoulders slouched or raised and spine bent, they might be
nervous, anxious or angry.

2. Use of arms

If a person has their arms down to their side, on the table or arranged in some other open
way, this is a sign that they feel positive and ready to absorb information. If their arms
are crossed or closed, they might be experiencing some sort of negative emotion.

3. Use of legs

If a person has both feet placed flat on the ground, this is a sign that they feel ready and
open to hear your ideas. If their legs are crossed or arranged in some other closed
formation, they might be feeling irritated or stressed.

4. Use of facial expressions

If you are communicating with someone who is frowning, has a furrowed brow or tight
lips, you might pause to ensure they don’t feel confused, angry or some other negative
emotion. If you are communicating with someone who has a soft smile, relaxed facial
muscles or gently raised eyebrows, this is a sign that they feel good about the information
you are presenting.
Be sensitive when responding to nonverbal communications. Many people may be
unaware of their body language and might be embarrassed if you bring it up. If you sense
someone might be angry, anxious or confused during your communications, take a
moment to consider the best course of action based on the individual.

If you feel it would be beneficial to ask how they are feeling in the moment, gently
address them with something like:

“I sense you might be feeling overwhelmed with my presentation. Is there something I

can take time to explain, or an idea you’d like to give feedback on?”

OR

“Is this is a good time to talk about our new process? If not, I’m happy to find a better
time we can chat.”

If you are in a meeting with several people, it might be a better idea to address them
afterwards in a one-on-one setting.

3.2 How to improve nonverbal communication

If you’d like to improve the use of your own nonverbal communication, there are a few
steps you can take:

1. Do a body language test

Pay close attention to the ways you use body language over a business week. Notice your
body language, facial expressions and posture in meetings, during casual exchanges and
in presentations. See how others respond to your natural nonverbal communications.

2. Notice how your emotions feel physically

Emotions are not purely felt in the mind; they affect us physically, too. Throughout the
day, as you experience a range of emotions (anything from energized, bored, happy or
frustrated), try to identify where you feel that emotion within your body.
For example, if you’re feeling anxious, you might notice that your stomach feels tight.
Developing the self-awareness of how your emotions affect your body can give you
greater mastery over your external presentation.

3. Be intentional about your nonverbal communications

Be attentive when trying to communicate with others using facial expressions or body
language. Make an effort to display positive body language when you feel alert, open and
positive about your surroundings.

You can also use body language to support your verbal communication if you feel
confused or anxious about information, like using a furrowed brow. Use body language
alongside verbal communication such as asking follow-up questions or pulling the
presenter aside to give feedback.

4. Mimic nonverbal communications you find effective

If you witness certain facial expressions or body language you find beneficial to a certain
setting, use it as a guide when improving your own nonverbal communications. For
example, if you see that when someone nods their head it communicates approval and
positive feedback efficiently, use it in your next meeting when you have the same
feelings.

5. Nonverbal communication is an essential part of having excellent communication

skills

Take time to understand the body language and facial expressions of others you work
with, as well as to develop the ways you use nonverbal communications Nonverbal 7

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3.3 Communication Skills Examples

Want to brush up on your skills? Review this list of nonverbal skills and work on any
areas where you think you could improve.

 Avoid slouching. Sit with your back straight up against the chair or lean slightly
forward to convey engagement. 
 Steer clear of smiles or laughter when messages are serious.
 Display some animation with your hands and facial expressions to project a
dynamic presence. (But avoid talking with your hands excessively, which can
appear unprofessional and unpolished.) 
 Don’t bring your phone, a drink, or anything else that could distract you during an
interview or meeting.
 Eliminate fidgeting and shaking of limbs.
 Establish frequent but not continuous or piercing eye contact with interviewers.
 Focus on the conversation.
 In a group interview, shift eye contact to the various speakers.
 Introduce yourself with a smile and a firm handshake. Be sure that your palms are
dry.
 Keep your hands away from your face and hair.
 Listen carefully, and do not interrupt.
 Maintain open arms—folded arms can convey defensiveness.
 Modulate your vocal tone to express excitement and punctuate key points.
 Nod to demonstrate understanding.
 Observe the reaction of others to your statements.
 Read the nonverbal signals of others. Provide clarification if they look confused,
and wrap up if they have heard enough.
 Refrain from forced laughter in response to humor.
  Avoid looking at the clock, your phone, or displaying any other signs of
disinterest.
 Respect the amount of personal space preferred by your communication partners.
 Rotate eye contact with various speakers in group interviewing or networking
situations.
 Shake hands firmly without excessive force.
 Show that you’re interested in what the interviewer is telling you.
 Smile to indicate that you are amused or pleased with the conversation.
 Stay calm even when you’re nervous.
 Steer clear of monotone delivery.
 Wait until the person is done talking to respond.

Using nonverbal communication in an interview

Nonverbal communication is an essential part of the interview. It is important both to

read and interpret the nonverbal cues of your interviewers and to respond with
appropriate body language throughout. Here are a few tips for using nonverbal
communication in your next interview:

 Stand up when your interviewer enters the room and greet them with a reasonably
confident handshake.
 Smile when greeting your interviewer and naturally throughout your interview.
 Sit with your shoulders back and chin up to convey confidence.
 Place both feet on the ground or crossed at the ankles and lay your hands on top
of one another on the table to express openness and friendliness.
 Use gestures naturally without being distracting.
 Speak with a reasonable, confident tone so your interviewers can easily and
clearly understand you without being too loud.
 Use natural, conversational intonation without going up or down too unnaturally.8

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 Chapter 4

CONCLUSION

Communication in general plays a very important role be it verbal or nonverbal.

Nonverbal communication plays an important role in how we convey meaning and
information to others, as well as how we interpret the actions of others during
conversations. For business professionals, for students who are studying law giving off
the right nonverbal cues is extremely important. When your body language, facial
expressions and tone of voice match your spoken words, your message is reinforced and
helps clients, coworkers, prospects and teachers better understand you. Non-verbal
communication is an extremely complex yet integral part of overall communication
skills. However, people are often totally unaware of their non-verbal behaviour.

A basic awareness of non-verbal communication strategies, over and above what is

actually said, can help to improve interaction with others. Knowledge of these signs can
be used to encourage people to talk about their concerns and can lead to a greater shared
understanding, which is, after all, the purpose of communication.
 Chapter 5

BIBILOGRAPHY

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3. https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/nonverbal-communication.html

4. https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-nonverbal-communication-2795397

5. https://businessjargons.com/non-verbal-communication.html

6. https://examples.yourdictionary.com/examples-of-non-verbal-communication.html

7. https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-nonverbal-communication-1691351

8. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/nonverbal-communication-
skills