Nonverbal communication includes body language, gestures, eye movements, tone of voice, and even clothing--all the ways in which we communicate that do not use spoken or written words. Studies of nonverbal communication indicate that we are constantly using nonverbal communication, whether or not we are also speaking. Leaders can use this constant nonverbal communication to motivate their teams and instill loyalty and confidence.
Matching Communications
It is highly important for leaders to match their nonverbal communication with their spoken words, says Carol Kinsey Gorman, Ph.D. In an article for Manage Smarter, Gorman notes, for instance, that leaders who tell their team "I'm glad to be here" while non-verbally communicating the opposite--by glancing at their watch, yawning or looking away when team members ask questions--risk confusing the team by sending conflicting messages. Furthermore, the team may feel their leader does not care about them or the project and are therefore less likely to trust their leader or want to perform to the best of their ability.
Gestures
Gesturing makes a person's speaking style more lively and animated and therefore makes the verbal message more interesting, according to North Carolina State University. Leaders who do not gesture are often assumed to be stiff, boring or difficult to approach if problems occur. Leaders who use hand gestures while speaking, on the other hand, are generally believed to be approachable. Leaders who gesture are also understood to be interested in the work and in the team doing it, which makes team members feel more comfortable and willing to ask for direction, clarification or assistance.
Active Listening
Active listening is more than just paying attention to the words another person is saying, according to North Carolina State University. Active listening includes a whole range of nonverbal communications that help you concentrate while they encourage the speaker to keep talking, believing that you are indeed listening. To demonstrate active listening, maintain eye contact with the speaker while she speaks. Turn your upper body and head towards the person, and lean forward slightly. You may nod as you understand the speaker's points, but do not interrupt her. Nonverbal communication can interrupt a speaker if it changes to communicate non-listening--for instance, if you begin to focus on something other than the speaker's face, lean away or turn your head or body so you can no longer see the speaker.
Smile
One of the simplest nonverbal communications leaders can use effectively is a smile, according to Gorman. Smiling indicates that you are approachable and that you genuinely want to work with your team on a project. Smiling is often contagious, and it may even help improve your mood and that of your team by triggering the release of endorphins in the brain. If you smile, your team members will consider you easier and more pleasant to work with, and may work harder and be more willing to tell you sooner if a mistake or complication arises.
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