Page 7 - cs_u2

3.1 INTRODUCTION TONONVERBALCOMMUNICATION

Strong communication skills are important in establishing personal and professional
relations. Verbal communication is defined as communication to express our views, information

and ideas in the form of sound and words. The spoken part usually involves face-to-face
communication. Communication through radio, television, or mobile phones is also called verbal

communication.

Most people know how to use verbal communication in daily life, but nonverbal

communication is often unintentional but provides enough information about people and their
mindsets.

Nonverbal communication can be a very powerful tool in understanding ourselves and
others. You can convey a lot without saying anything.

Nonverbal communication includes all forms of body language communication, and also
clothing and adornment, environmental factors and even the manner in which we use time.

3.1.1. USES OF NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION

Dickson and Hargie (2003, p. 50) suggest that we use nonverbal communication in order to:

1. Replace verbal communication in situations where it may be impossible or
inappropriate to talk

2. Complement verbal communication, thereby enhancing the overall message
3. Modify the spoken word

4. Contradict what is said, either intentionally or unintentionally
5. Regulate conversation by helping to mark speech turns
6. Express emotions and interpersonal attitudes

7. Negotiate relationships with respect to dominance, control and liking
8. Convey personal and social identity through such features as dress and
adornments

9. Contextualize interaction by creating a particular social setting.

2