Non-verbal Archives - Communication and Beyond

Unlocking Leadership Potential: Navigating Challenges through Mindfulness

Communication, Leadership, Non-verbal / Archana Parmar

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for leaders navigating challenges, whether it’s adapting to a new cultural environment or making critical career decisions. Mindfulness isn’t just about personal growth—it’s a strategic tool for leadership communication, decision-making, and fostering deeper connections. Whether you’re leading a team or navigating your own career path, mindfulness can unlock your true potential.

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What is the Power of Paralanguage and Non-Verbal Communication?

Communication, Non-verbal / Archana Parmar

In addition to the components of paralanguage that we discussed in part one, non-verbal communication encompasses various aspects that significantly impact our understanding and interpretation of messages. In this part of the article, we will dive deeper into the fascinating world of non-verbal communication, including paralanguage, kinesics, and proxemics. Paralanguage and Emotions: When it comes to expressing feelings and deepening the meaning of linguistic information, paralanguage is essential. Paul Ekman, an acclaimed psychologist, found that non-verbal cues like facial expressions play a crucial role in how people understand emotional states. Happiness, sadness, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise are six universal core human emotions that can be represented through facial expressions, according to Ekman. These expressions transcend over cultural barriers and make it possible to communicate clearly even when there is no common language. For example, a study conducted by Ekman and Friesen (1971) states the universality of facial expressions by showing photographs of individuals displaying different emotions to individuals from different cultures. The participants consistently recognized and interpreted the emotions accurately, highlighting the importance of non-verbal cues in conveying emotions across cultures. Kinesics: Body Language and Gestures: Kinesics is the study of body language and gestures as a form of non-verbal communication. It includes facial expressions, hand movements, body postures, and eye contact. Our body language often conveys more information than verbal language and can influence the perception of a message. One example of the power of kinesics is the use of gestures in political speeches. Public figures often utilize specific hand movements and facial expressions to enhance their message, establish rapport with the audience, and convey sincerity. These non-verbal cues can significantly impact the audience’s perception and engagement with the speaker. The widely recognized speeches of Martin Luther King Jr., particularly his “I Have a Dream” speech, serve as a significant case study. King was able to effectively show his enthusiasm, conviction, and the scope of his vision through the use of strong gestures, such as his outstretched arms and upbeat facial expressions. His message resonated with people of all ages and had a lasting impression thanks in part to this kinesics performance. To illustrate this further, Albert Mehrabian, a pioneer in the study of nonverbal communication, discovered that body language and facial emotions made up 55% of communication, while tone of voice accounted for only 38% and actual words were used to convey only 7% of the message. This emphasizes the importance of nonverbal cues in meaning communication. Even if someone says something that seems neutral, clenched fists and stern facial expressions might convey anger or aggressiveness. A friendly grin and an open body posture can also project approachability. In a workplace setting, non-verbal cues can significantly impact professional interactions. A study conducted by Carol Kinsey Goman, an expert in non-verbal communication, found that employees who used positive non-verbal behaviors, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and smiling, were perceived as more credible and persuasive by their colleagues and supervisors. Proxemics: Space and Distance: Proxemics is the study of how individuals use and perceive space and distance during communication. It explores the impact of physical proximity on interpersonal relationships, social dynamics, and cultural norms. As a result of a research conducted by Edward T. Hall, an anthropologist, it was revealed that different cultures have varying norms regarding personal space and distance. For example, in some cultures, a larger personal space is preferred during conversations, while in others, closer proximity is customary. Violating these cultural norms can lead to discomfort or misinterpretation. In a study conducted by Hall, individuals from different cultures were observed in their everyday interactions. The results of the research stated that while people from the United States preferred a larger personal space, individuals from Latin American and Middle Eastern cultures preferred closer distances during conversations. This disparity in proxemics demonstrated the importance of understanding and adapting to cultural norms to ensure effective cross-cultural communication. In other words, proxemics refers to the study of how people use and interpret space in social interactions. It involves understanding personal space, territoriality, and the distance between individuals during communication. Research shows that the physical distance between individuals can impact the level of intimacy, formality, and comfort in a conversation. For instance, standing too close to someone might make them feel uncomfortable or invade their personal space, while maintaining a suitable distance can foster a sense of ease and mutual respect. Now you know why we feel that awkwardness when someone comes really close to us! Here, a study conducted by Edward T. Hall, a renowned anthropologist, explored the concept of proxemics in an office environment. It found that individuals who positioned their desks closer to each other and had more face-to-face interactions experienced better collaboration, stronger relationships, and increased productivity compared to those who had more physical distance between them. Non-Verbal Cues in your everyday Life: Non-verbal communication is not limited to formal settings but is ingrained in our daily interactions. Consider the following examples: a) Job Interviews: During a job interview, non-verbal cues such as a firm handshake, maintaining eye contact, and an upright posture conveys confidence, professionalism, and interest in the position. While, slouching, fidgeting, or avoiding eye contact may communicate nervousness or disinterest. b) Relationships: Non-verbal language plays a vital role in close relationships. Hugs, kisses, and physical touch can express affection, while crossed arms or lack of physical contact may indicate emotional distance. Understanding these cues and expressing them appropriately fosters stronger connections. c) The Power of a Handshake: A handshake, a common non-verbal gesture, can influence impressions and outcomes. A firm handshake is often associated with confidence and trustworthiness. d) The Silent Apology: Non-verbal cues can also be used to express emotions and convey apologies. In an incident reported by a news outlet, a high-profile public figure was caught in a scandal. During a press conference, while verbally denying the allegations, their body language exhibited signs of discomfort, nervousness, and avoidance of eye contact. These non-verbal cues led the public to question the sincerity

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importance of paralinguistic in communication

Everything You need to know about paralinguistic communication

Communication, Non-verbal / Archana Parmar

Speaking allows you to accomplish a lot more than just talking. The impact of body language, facial expression, and nonverbal speech characteristics (pitch, speed, tone, accent, pronunciation and articulation are paralinguistic features of nonverbal communication) is much more than most people even realise. The breakdown of communication, according to studies from the 1960s that have been frequently verified and repeated, is 55 – 38 – 7. 55% of it is, body language (kinesics) 38% of communication is nonverbal yet vocal (paralanguage) 7% of it is language Therefore, only 7% of how you come across to others when you communicate is influenced by what you say. Everything else determines the other 93 percent of the effect you have. The exchange of information without using words is known as nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication falls into two main categories: 1- Body language. 2- Paralanguage. Para-what? The term “Paralinguistic Communication.” Isn’t it a big load? What Paralinguistic Communication really means is: When you talk, what are you saying with your voice rather than your words? Let’s talk about paralinguistic elements of communication. Paralanguage is an essential part of non-verbal communication and as it is non-verbal, it does not consist of words but without it words do not convey the intentional meaning. Paralanguage refers to all non-verbal communication (anything spoken or done without using words). Para means “like,” hence “paralinguistic” is the systematic study of how a speaker verbalises. Paralanguage is literally “like language.” Paralanguage reveals what people are communicating even when the words are not spoken. Sign up to gain access to Free Webinar Webinar on Assertive Communication, now for FREE Watch the webinar now Loading… Thank you! You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Importance of paralinguistic in communication We’ve all heard people conversing in social settings, public spaces, and workplaces, as well as in rooms close by. Although we may not be able to hear what they are saying clearly, we can infer what they are discussing by the way they speak, including their voice, tone, pitch, and intensity. We may make out what they are talking about, i.e. is there some serious matter, or a joke, enjoyment or fight. This is the power of paralanguage that the voice communicates something beyond language. Body language describes a person’s postures, gestures, and facial expressions. Non-lexical aspects of speech, such as pitch, tone, intonation, volume, pauses, etc., are referred to as paralanguage. The primary distinction between body language and paralanguage is that one studies the nonverbal aspects of speech while the other studies the motions and poses of the entire body-aka-paralinguistic communication activities. Paralinguistic communication in business- Paralanguage is everything in your voice other than the actual words that you are saying. It can be helpful to know and appreciate how paralanguage affects clarity in order to have more productive conversations at work. Managers’ organisational influence and communication effectiveness can both rise when they can create higher degrees of logical consistency between the words they speak and the paralanguage that goes along with them. Writing and verbal communication abilities are indeed critical components of professional success, according to a number of studies. The appropriate use of language is linked to employee resistance, misinterpretation, lost employee effort, conflict, and general labour relations. As leaders gain greater influence and power, the idea becomes even more crucial. They will find it challenging to express their strategic visions effectively if they unintentionally send out conflicting messages that are viewed differently by various groups of society. To illustrate it further, when giving an employee praise, support, or helpful criticism at work, a manager’s tone can say a lot. A pleasant voice conveys respect, admiration, and a desire to assist. Workers love working for a motivated leadership whose words and actions are consistent. On the other hand, when talking with subordinates, managers who raise their voice or use a sarcastic or insulting tone may frighten workers. Make sure your tone of voice supports the message you want to convey while speaking to staff. Body language Body language is a form of nonverbal communication. Body language is the intentional or unconscious use of physical activity such as gestures, body posture, eye movement, and facial expressions to communicate sentiments and intentions. However, it’s also critical to remember that how body language is interpreted varies across nations and cultures. For instance, while making direct eye contact may be regarded as impolite in some cultures, it may also be seen as a sign of sincerity and honesty in others. Paralanguage, to understand the emotions being expressed through nonverbal aspects of speech, such as speech rate, pitch of voice, tone, volume, modulation, inflection, accent, and accentuation, are observed. For instance, speaking with a forceful tone and constant pitch gives the impression of authority. Anger is typically shown by speaking at a high pitch and in an accusing, spiteful manner. The study of paralanguage also includes the study of speech pauses, interruptions, and respiratory features like gasps and sighs. These characteristics also enable us to ascertain a person’s moods and emotions. For instance, gasps could signify shock, disgust, or disbelief. Conflicts There are often contradictions between our paralanguage and actual spoken language because we don’t always say what we mean. For example, a smile on the face may contradict an aggressive tone of voice, or we may express our enthusiasm for something while slouching, being preoccupied with something else, or adopting a defensive body posture. Two general guidelines are applicable when such disputes arise: People always accept the bigger figure; thus, they are more likely to believe your paralanguage than your words because the former accounts for 93% of your effect while the latter only accounts for 7%. People are skewed toward the negative, so if you speak in a positive tone but take an aggressive attitude, people are more likely to be swayed by that. Advantages of Paralanguage No oral communication is complete without paralanguage as it is closely connected to language itself. To a large extent, paralanguage indicates the position and situation of

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6 Steps That Will Make You a Better Communicator

Communication, Non-verbal, Presentations, Speaking Skills, Uncategorized / Archana Parmar

Here are six tips for improving your communication style: 1. Identify your style: Knowing how to improve communication skills will come easier once you become aware of your own communication style. Each person has a unique way of communicating. Listen to your own speech. What sorts of words do you use? Which sort of body language and what tone of voice are you using? Now, think of someone who, in your opinion, is a good communicator. Compare your style to theirs. You’ve just taken an important first step in how to improve communication skills. 2. Observe others around you: Now that you are aware of your own style, study the style of those around you. How do the most important people in your life converse? How do they say things? Look for approaches you can model and make your own. 3. Adjust to the other styles of communication: Don’t think it is too late to change your way of conversing because its been years. You had to learn to communicate in the first place and you can unlearn certain behaviors or change them. Sometimes we get stuck in a communication rut. A father once was having a hard time with his teenaged daughter. She was growing and he thought she didnt tell him what was going on in her life. They were in a heated discussion when he asked, Why didnt you tell me? Her answer was that she had, but he was too busy lecturing her to hear her. He learned that adjusting his style to his daughter would involve listening first before jumping right into solving the problem. 4. Rapport: To build rapport, during a conversation try and match the other persons movements, posture and verbal style. Don’t do everything they do, but mirror one or two things. For example, if the person gives mostly short answers to questions, you follow suit. Or, maybe they talk at a slower pace than you usually do-slow your speaking speed to match theirs. This may sound simplistic but it is a very potent way to make someone feel very relaxed and comfortable in your presence. 5. Be mindful of your surroundings: The way you communicate at home may not be the same as in a different environment. Make sure you change your style to suit the different setting. Some comments you might want to tell your best friend, in private. Other things can be shared in a group setting. Learn how to improve communication skills by altering your style for the appropriate setting. Many of us know someone who offers far too much information in a group setting. 6. Avoid imitation: Don’t criticize others for communicating differently. If we all communicated in the same way, we’d soon be bored with each other. Getting a good grasp of your communication style and finding ways to accommodate other peoples styles, is a good way to improve your communication skills. All of these are steps to be taken every single day. The more you implement, the more you master.

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3 reasons you cannot speak fluent english

Business English, Communication, English language, Non-verbal, Presentations, Speaking Skills, Uncategorized / Archana Parmar

Speaking skills cover a wide range, from engaging in simple conversation to formal public speaking. It certainly plays a vital role in communication process. It is the most important type from the types of linguistic activities. Developing speaking skills help in creating an effective connection among the individuals’ network. Yeah! I am getting overtly expressive with the importance of speaking skills. Now some technical part, speaking is a complicated mental process and a productive skill. Producing speech is not a single skill, rather speaking is an interactive process of constructing meaning that involves producing, receiving and processing information. Effective Speaking includes two categories; accuracy and fluency. This means that developing speaking skill involves the correct use of vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation and having the ability to speak spontaneously. Doing all of this at the same time brings in the ‘unwanted guest’ here: ANXIETY. Speaking is affected by these variables; therefore, foreign language speaking anxiety is one of the most prominent factors that has a negative influence on the oral performance of speakers of other language learning English whether as a second language or a foreign Language. Anxiety is a negative way to present human feelings. When we are anxious we feel nervous, worried and fearful. It is usually associated with unpleasant feeling and is similar to fear. Anxiety in communicating in a second language, especially when that language is English can have an adverse effect and can influence the speakers’ targeted goals. There can be different reasons behind these anxiety attacks: Lack of preparation Feeling of covering too many points in a short period of time Fear of being judged by the audience Now that we know the problem, let’s have a look at the solutions to cure these problems. Identify your fears: you can’t work on improving yourself until you identify the problems. Introspection is the key here. Accept the problems and share your feelings with others or write them down- read aloud for as long as you are unaffected by how it sounds. Mistakes are the best way to learn so that we are less likely to keep making them. The most important step is to keep practicing. Always remember you are learning to master a second or may be a third language while many native speakers do not even speak a second language. Schedule a free 30 minutes session with me to understand how you can overcome this anxiety. Or write to me at archana@archanaparmar.com

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Components of non-verbal Communication: Paralanguage

21 Comments / Communication, Non-verbal, Uncategorized / Archana Parmar

The study of non-verbal Communication is divided into three main areas. Paralanguage- the way we say what we say. Kinesics- body language and facial expression. Proxemics- how the physical space is used. The study of Paralanguage focuses on the way we say what we say. Two identical verbal messages may communicate different meanings altogether, depending on the tone of the voice. Here, I would like to add that while speaking, apart from the words, a great deal is conveyed by the tone of the speaker’s voice, the rate of speech, the pitch, and the stress on the words. The way you speak a sentence can change the meaning by playing with the emphasis on certain words. Listeners can interpret various meanings from any sentence depending on the tone, volume, pitch, and other non-verbal cues. There are different components of Paralanguage-1. Voice qualities2. Voice qualifiers3. Voice characteristics4. Vocal segregation Voice quality:Components- volume, pitch, rhythm, rate of speech, pronunciation, and enunciation. Let’s take a look at the volume and the role that it plays in Communication. * It acts as an essential parameter of effective communication- people sometimes speak louder to grab the attention of their audience. * Speaking loudly (overly loudly) can be disturbing or annoying, speaking really softly will act as a barrier to effective communication. Volume of your voice has to be attuned to the situation. Voice Pitch:This one is in response to our emotions. Shrieking indicates excitement or nervousness and anger at times while a low pitch commands attention and respect. Your volume pitch plays a vital role in showing your audience if you are in control of the situation or not. Rhythm:It is about the pattern and the music of your voice. A smooth rhythm will project you as a confident speaker with an authoritative attitude. On the other hand, being out of rhythm may convey lack of clarity and preparation. Rate of speech:People speak about 150 words a minute on average. Speaking fast signifies a nervous, impatient speaker, while a slow speaker sounds boring and clueless about the situation. Pronunciation and Enunciation: Pronunciation plays a crucial role in building an individual’s image. Yes it varies from country to country so the best solution would be to adopt a clear way of pronouncing words that can be understood by everyone. Pronunciation is about making correct sound and paying attention to word stress and pitch. Enunciation is how correct a word is pronounced. It deals with the move movement of mouth and speed of speaking. Poor enunciation indicates carelessness at the same time overly precise enunciation may seem artificial/ phony. Vocal characteristics: Sounds which are audible such as- crying, whistling, clearing the throat, sighing, all these audible sounds serve to communicate something are called vocal characteristics. Noticing and understanding these sounds can help improve #communication. Last but certainly not the least is- Vocal segregates: Vocal segregates are also called ‘fillers’.Ummmm……, Ah……, Errr…….., I mean…., Actually…., You see….. Etc.They are the awkward components of speaking and should be avoided as much as possible. These empty fillers indicate the lack of confidence and lack of clarity. *********** Some interesting facts about non-verbal communication: Verbal communication can be planned, whereas the non-verbal is spontaneous and continuous. Verbal communication can be started and stopped abruptly, while the non-verbal can’t. Whenever the verbal and non-verbal communication contradict each other, non-verbal cues are considered to be more reliable. Drop me a line at archana@archanaparmar.com to learn more about the art of communicating effectively.

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Non-verbal