6.2 Types of non-verbal communication
Dwyer (2005, p.52) identifies three types of non-verbal communication:
- 'personal to the individual
- common to a group of people or culture
- universal to humankind.'
Activity 6a
- Read through the three types of non-verbal communication on pages 52-55 of the text.
- Personal non-verbal communication
Do you have particular non-verbal habits? You may not notice these yourself so it is a good idea to ask someone you trust who can provide you with sensitive feedback. Do these habits detract from your message? For example do you always flick your hair back without realising it? Does this bother others? If possible, ask someone to watch you perform a public presentation. Did they spot any ineffective non-verbal habits? - Cultural non-verbal communication
- Non-verbal communication is very culture-based. Think back to the business etiquette exercise in chapter 4 and the cross-cultural differences in business etiquette.
- What are cultural norms?
- Compare and contrast your cultural norms and rules with those of another culture by talking to a person from a different culture or watching a documentary on another culture or by simply observing people from different cultures when you are out and about shopping or dining.
- Remember that the norms of each culture are different rather than right or wrong. Observe, analyse and interpret rather than judge others' behaviour.
- Universal non-verbal communication
- Do you know of any cultures that do not smile or cry? These are basic human physiological reactions common to all people. Can you think of any other universal non-verbal communication behaviours.
- Work through activities 1-3 of the Skill Builder exercise on pages 55-56 of your text.
Back Page