Functions of Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication helps convey meaning in at least five ways. As you become more aware of the following functions of nonverbal communications, you will be better able to use these silent codes to your advantage in the workplace.

• To complement and illustrate: Nonverbal messages can amplify, modify, or provide details for a verbal message. For example, in describing the size of a cell phone, a speaker holds his fingers apart 12 cm. In pumping up sales reps, the manager jams his fist into the opposite hand to indicate the strong effort required

•  To reinforce and accentuate: Skilled speakers raise their voices to convey important ideas, but hey whisper to suggest secrecy. A grimace forecasts painful news, whereas a big smile intensifies good news. A neat, well-equipped office reinforces a message of professionalism.

• To replace and substitute: Many gestures substitute for words: nodding your head for "yes" and giving a V for victory, making a thumbs-up sign for approval, and shrugging your shoulders for "I don't care." In fact, a complex set of gestures totally replaces spoken words in sign language. 

• To control and regulate: Nonverbal messages are important regulators in conversation. Shifts in eye contact, slight head movements, changes in posture, raising eyebrows, nodding of the head, and voice inflection. All of these cues tell speakers when to continue, to repeat, to elaborate, to hurry up, or to finish.

• To contradict: To be sarcastic, a speaker might hold his nose while stating that your new perfume is wonderful. In the workplace, individuals may send contradictory messages with words or actions. The boss, for example, says he wants to promote Kevin, but he fails to submit the necessary recommendation. 

Reference

Guffey, M. E., Rhodes, K., & Rogin, P. (2008). Business communication process and product (6^th edition). Toronto: Nelson