Question 2. Describe five ways in which you can use nonverbal cues to show speakers that you are listening to them, and provide an example for each

Answer

Question 2. Describe five ways in which you can use nonverbal cues to show speakers that you are listening to them, and provide an example for each

Effective Listening using Nonverbal Cues

Communication as a way of passing information is often understood by many as the use of words to convey a message. However, for effective communication and listening, both the speaker and the audiences need to apply both the verbal and nonverbal aspects of communication in a complementary manner (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019). Nonverbal cues or body language is the behavioral approach to understanding a conversation, which relies on non-vocal elements such as gestures, eye contact, and facial expression. Even though oral and nonverbal cues work in tandem, nonverbal communication gives meaning or reinforce the discussion happening between individuals. While the speakers' role is to convey information clearly and efficiently, the participation of the listeners is also a prerequisite to its success (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019). Therefore, my application of body language will significantly affect the success of the speaker’s message.

During communication, the human face is hugely vital in conveying countless information without saying a word. The expressions of hunger, happiness, sadness, disgust, fear is universal across all ages. As such it will show the speaker whether I am attentively listening or not, for example, a radiant look will automatically convey to the speaker that I am interested in the talk and thus encourage him to continue (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019). The mood should change according to the variation of the subject at hand.

Perception of the speaker is often affected by how the audience sits, stands, holds their chin, and or makes discrete movements. Nodding in agreement will show the speaker that I am listening and this will encourage him to go on (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019). However, when disinterested, I will make subtle movements or stand in a position likely to suggest that I am not fully concentrating and probably should be out of that place.

Gestures forms day to day interactions of individuals across all races and age, and sometimes it happens unconsciously, I may wave or make animated gestures while communicating or listening which may mean different things depending on the context. For example, to show that I am attentive, I may make the okay sign as a way of expressing my agreement to the words (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019). Nevertheless, one should be careful about how they use specific gestures to avoid misinterpretation.

Eye contact also forms a significant basis for communication; the way I look at the speaker will communicate numerous things such as interest, affection and hatred (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019). It is also used by the speaker to gauge the flow of communication, whether to continue or to stop. A smile will pass information to the speaker that I am interested in the conversation, and he should stay.

While it may not be considered significant in the communication process, the space between the speaker and the listeners portrays the kind of relationship that exists between them (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019).  For example, sitting close to the speaker will show that I like the speaker and thus, I want to hear and fully comprehend the message.

In conclusion, nonverbal cues as a process of giving meaning to words by reinforcing or sometimes substituting the ambiguous words have been used over a long period to show the speaker the mood of the audience, and whether they are following the conversation or not. When applied correctly, nonverbal communication has life and is engaging, hence useful.