Nonverbal Communication in the

Workplace
June 18, 2021
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By: Indeed Editorial Team

Many people use nonverbal communication throughout the day to express how they’re
feeling and what they’re thinking. Understanding and communicating with others at work
is one challenge, but interpreting nonverbal body language can present unique
challenges when working remotely. Whether you are working in person or remotely, it is
important to know how to communicate with colleagues, supervisors and interviewers
using gestures, tone of voice or other nonverbal cues to make your message more
effective. In this article, we explain common nonverbal communication examples that
can occur in the workplace.

Read more: The Complete Guide To Nonverbal Communication in the Workplace

What is nonverbal communication?

Nonverbal communication sends cues to others using actions rather than words. This
can include communication using hand gestures, eye contact, body language,
appearance, facial expressions and tone of voice. Nonverbal communication can be
one of the strongest forms of communication between coworkers. It can take place in
many workplace situations including during meetings, interviews or casual
conversations.

Nonverbal communication is a way to express thoughts or emotions without words.

People can express happiness, engagement, concern, gratitude and confidence by
responding nonverbally.

Types of nonverbal communication

By learning about types of nonverbal communication, you can gain a clearer understanding of
what your body might communicate to others — even without your realization.

Here are eight types of nonverbal communication and how they may be used in the workplace:

1. Vocalics
2. Proximity
3. Body movements
4. Posture
5. Touch
 6. Physiological changes
7. Facial expressions
8. Eye contact

1. Vocalics

Vocalics, also referred to as paralanguage, includes the way you speak, such as your tone of
voice. No matter what you might say, the way you say it can communicate more than the words
you choose.

Besides tone, vocalics might include the volume and pitch of your voice. For example, if you feel
uncomfortable in a situation, you might naturally speak quietly to draw less attention to yourself.
Conversely, speaking too loudly can make the person you are talking to feel you are trying to
speak over them or overpower their opinion.

Sarcasm is also an example of nonverbal communication because it involves saying words in a

tone that conveys the opposite meaning. For example, if you are being sarcastically enthusiastic
about a situation, you might say “Oh, great” in a sarcastic tone. Although the words show a
positive response, the way you say it shows otherwise.

2. Proximity

How close you choose to stand or sit next to someone is also a form of nonverbal
communication. The space around you is often referred to as your personal space, which
generally is between 6-18 inches around your body. For most people, this space is only for
close friends and family to enter. If someone violates that space in a professional setting, you
will probably feel put off by the interaction.

Being aware of your proximity to others can help to not violate someone’s personal space and
make them feel uncomfortable. However, it’s also important to stand or sit close enough to
someone so you can communicate effectively and clearly, as being too far away makes it
difficult to hear and might even signal that you’re not interested in the conversation.

Related: 10 Ways To Show Professional Behavior in the Workplace

3. Body movements

Body movements, or kinetics, include nodding or gesturing with your hands. These common
examples of body movements can convey your excitement about a conversation or topic. Some
body movements can be involuntary, such as wringing your hands, shaking when you are
nervous or clearing your throat often. Some can also be distracting, especially if you are in a job
interview or giving a professional presentation.

Related: How To Use Nonverbal Communication in an Interview

4. Posture
The way you hold your body can make an impression on those around you. Standing and sitting
are common positions in professional settings, so noticing how you look when you are in either
position is important. When you stand with your head held high and your back straight, you are
nonverbally communicating assurance, strength and confidence. A slouched position with your
back curved and your head facing downward often conveys the opposite, causing you to appear
indifferent or uncertain.

How you position your upper body and legs can also be impactful. Try to stand with your head
raised, arms uncrossed and legs slightly apart to express a friendly, open demeanor. When you
cross your arms, you may subconsciously show the other person that you feel uninterested in
the conversation.

Related: How To Sit in an Interview: 15 Steps and Tips

5. Touch

Touching another person is a key aspect of nonverbal communication. A hug conveys warmth
and love, while a pat on the back can convey a job well done. Unsolicited or unwelcome touch
can cause a person to feel uncomfortable, so it’s important to make sure your touch is always
professional in the workplace.

Touch also varies between cultures. For example, in Central America, physical touch is a key
part of all different types of relationships. In certain parts of Europe and North America, kissing
on the cheek is a common way to greet another person. In the United States, people engage in
less physical touch outside of personal relationships.

The most common form of touch in a professional setting is a handshake, which can also
convey different meanings. A weak or limp handshake may show a lack of confidence, while a
firm handshake conveys strength and respect.

Read more: 12 Tips To Improve Your Professional Handshake

6. Physiological changes

Physiological changes are most often linked to discomfort and stress in a situation. These types
of changes include blushing, sweating or tearing up. You can’t control the physiological changes
your body makes in situations, so these will often give away how you feel.

7. Facial expressions

Your face can often reveal your emotions in a situation. The expression you make can change
the meaning of the words you say or show how you feel about what someone else is saying to
you. For example, raising an eyebrow can convey an inquisitive feeling or even a devious one.

Rolling your eyes is a way to express displeasure or unhappiness with a situation. As you speak
to others, you can watch their facial expressions to get a better sense of their true reactions to
what you say. Being aware of your own facial expressions is also important, especially in a
professional atmosphere.

Related: How To Be Approachable at Work

8. Eye contact

Maintaining eye contact shows your interest and engagement with the person speaking to you.
If the person you’re talking to is looking away, this nonverbal form of communication shows
distraction or unease. When a person is being untruthful, they often have trouble making eye
contact, which is another nonverbal cue.

To maintain strong, effective communication, try to focus on what the other person is saying and
look into their eyes as they speak.

Read more: How To Improve Your Eye Contact

How to improve your nonverbal communication skills

Recognizing your own nonverbal communication tendencies is the first step in improving your
nonverbal communication skills. For example, if you often make certain facial expressions
during a video call, it can be a hard habit to break but is worth noting should the behavior need
to change.

Here are a few quick tips to help you improve your nonverbal communication skills in the
workplace:

 Perform a body language test: Evaluate your posture, facial expressions and more
during your workday, and how people react.

 Evaluate how you physically feel: Identifying how your physical feelings correlate to
your emotions will help you react to situations more positively.

 Be intentional: Use appropriate body language and be attentive when communicating —

remember, your nonverbal gestures should support your verbal communication.

 Mimic others: If someone you regularly interact with communicates well nonverbally,
take note and learn from them.

Examples of nonverbal communication in the

workplace
To help you become more aware of nonverbal communication in the workplace, here
are a few examples:

Maintaining proper eye contact

Coworkers will often feel valued and appreciated if they know they’re being heard. You
can help them feel this way by making eye contact while they’re speaking. For example,
if a coworker approaches you with an idea to increase collaboration in your department,
show that you are actively listening by maintaining eye contact and nodding in
agreement.

Keeping your eyes on the person you’re speaking with rather than on your computer,
paperwork or cell phone lets them know you’re listening to their input. Maintaining eye
contact while you’re replying to them also keeps the conversation engaging, and turning
your camera on for video chats can build a respectful relationship between coworkers.

Using a positive tone of voice

Though the act of speaking is a part of verbal communication, how you speak can be
considered nonverbal communication. Whether you are communicating in person or
participating in a video conference call, always be aware of your tone of voice so it
reflects your intended message. Maintaining a positive tone while talking with a
coworker or supervisor can affect the energy of your whole conversation.

For example, if an employee is giving a presentation proposing a new client

engagement plan, an energetic and positive tone can spark enthusiasm for the project.
This may increase the level of interest from senior management as they notice the
employee express excitement and passion for the project.

Related: How To Communicate Better With Coworkers

Being mindful of personal appearance

The way you present yourself can create an impact greater than words might say.
Your workplace appearance such as looking neat and prepared—even if you are in the
comfort of your own home office—or keeping a tidy workstation can convey your self-
confidence and make a positive impression on coworkers. For example, if you’re hoping
to speak with a supervisor to ask for a raise or promotion, you may choose to dress in
business attire to showcase your dedication to both the position and professionalism in
the workplace.

Standing or sitting with a good posture

The way you stand or sit at work can often display your attitude or attentiveness toward
certain situations. Sitting or standing up straight can show you’re engaged in the
conversation while also portraying a confident appearance during an interview. Or, if
you’re explaining a new idea to your supervisor and want to communicate effectively,
you can sit or stand with your shoulders back to convey your confidence and why you
believe your idea will benefit the company.

Expressing kindness or professionalism through appropriate touch

Communicating through touch has evolved from the pre-COVID workplace. Even
without social-distancing protocols, people have always varied in their comfort levels
with touch. Developing your cultural intelligence can be a useful, rapport-building skill in
the workplace.

For example, in the U.S., shaking a person’s hand firmly is a way to show respect or
that you’re pleased to meet them, whereas that might be misconstrued as a sign of
aggression in other cultures. If you sense that it’s appropriate, a slight touch on the arm
or pat on the shoulder can also be a way to show your support or encouragement
without vocally expressing it.

Displaying courteous facial expressions

As people communicate with you, they will often be anticipating a nonverbal response
by watching your facial expressions. Keep in mind, even during a virtual interview, your
face can communicate what you’re feeling or thinking without using any words. Smiling,
nodding along and using your eyebrows can indicate a positive reaction when having a
conversation. For example, if a coworker is telling you about their recent vacation, you
can smile and nod along while you listen to show you’re enjoying their story.

Respecting personal space

During one-on-one conversations, you may move closer to a person rather than remain
far apart. For example, if you’re sitting down before a meeting with a large group of
people and notice a coworker interested in talking, you can get up and sit near them.
This shows that you’re interested in having a conversation and want to hear them
clearly. Try to make sure you’re allowing enough space to maintain a comfortable
environment for both of you.

Using hand gestures to express a feeling

The gestures or positioning of your hands during conversations can convey to others
how you’re feeling. If you move your hands to build expression throughout stories,
people can become more engaged in what you’re saying.

Hand gestures can also express friendliness or appreciation, like waving to someone
from across the room to greet them or giving them a thumbs up to express a job well
done after a presentation.

Paying attention to body language

Your overall body language can showcase your feelings during a meeting or while
carrying on a conversation. Keeping your arms relaxed at your sides while talking
expresses openness and a willingness to listen, whereas crossing your arms in front of
you might indicate to others that you’re closed off. You can also express politeness and
undistracted attention by leaning forward in your seat.

Your body language can also demonstrate how engaged you are throughout a
conversation. For example, if you’re watching a coworker give a presentation and are
sitting upright with your arms on the table, this can show you’re engaged in their
presentation. Slouching in your seat might imply that you’re disinterested.

Related: 5 Ways To Improve Your Communication in Business and Why It’s

Important

Why is nonverbal communication important?

By accurately interpreting the nonverbal cues of your coworkers, you can gain a shared
understanding of their feelings, emotions and attitudes toward certain situations. Your
ability to communicate with shared meaning can encourage collaboration with team
members, which may boost productivity, enhance engagement and strengthen
your cultural competence.

Being aware of your own communication strategies can also help you convey your
feelings on various subject matters or situations. It can also help you exude confidence
when talking with supervisors or express empathy when listening to a coworker.