When you're trying to improve your communication skills, it is important that you not overlook the influence of nonverbal communication. According to BNET, a website for working professionals, "The majority of what we learn about human behavior isn't spoken; it's conveyed by nonverbal signals." People are more likely to respond to unspoken messages implied in your body language. Therefore, monitoring and improving your nonverbal skills can help you in your efforts to communicate well.
Active Listening
One of the best ways to improve nonverbal communication is to practice active listening when engaged in conversation. The Help Guide website warns that you might miss important nonverbal cues other people send if you are preoccupied with anything other than your conversation. Furthermore, your own body language, such as a failure to maintain eye contact, may inadvertently convey disinterest and boredom, which could cause offense. On the other hand, you will convey respect and positive regard if you give the person you're speaking with your undivided attention. When you're engaged in conversation, practice active listening by facing your partner and looking him directly in the eye.
Tone
Monitoring your tone of voice is another good way to improve nonverbal communication. Your tone can be more telling than the words you use to deliver a message. For example, the phrase "I'm so proud of you" may imply warmth and affection if your tone is cheerful, upbeat and sincere. The same words can convey disappointment, aggravation or anger if they are said in a tone that is sarcastic, mean-spirited or snide. In order to monitor the tone, pitch and volume of your voice, the Help Guide website suggests recording yourself in conversation with another person. This may help you to determine whether your tone is undermining your ability to communicate effectively.
Mirroring
You can also improve your nonverbal communication skills by employing a technique called mirroring. According to the BNET, matching your posture, facial expressions and gestures to the nonverbal behavior of the person you are talking to sends a subtle message that you are tuned in to your speaking partner and fully engaged in your conversation. If carefully done, mirroring is one of the best nonverbal ways to establish rapport with another person.
Feedback
Feedback from an outside observer can give you insight into your nonverbal behavior and identify areas that could stand improvement. Facial expressions, gestures, space, touch and posture are all important features in nonverbal communication. Each one can convey a number of different messages. For example, you may hunch your shoulders or frown slightly when you're talking to another person without being aware of it. This type of body language could be interpreted as hostile or sullen. Improve your nonverbal skills by having a trusted friend observe you in conversation with a third party and share her impressions with you.
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