Characteristics of Nonverbal Communication

• While nonverbal communication comes in several types, the forms all exhibit common traits. Nonverbal communications tend to be continuous and more ambiguous than verbal communication, generally making them more reliable indicators of emotion and feeling. Because of their general consistency, nonverbal communications sometimes contradict, emphasize and regulate verbal communication depending on the situation.
  
  

Facial Expressions and Eye Contact

• Facial expressions, one of the most obvious methods of nonverbal communication, tend to be universal across all cultures. Happiness, sadness, fear, anger and other emotions can all be discerned by observing how facial muscles contract and loosen depending on the situation. Eye contact, or lack of it, plays a large part in facial expression and can determine the level of comfort, affection and trust shared during communication.
  
  

Body Language and Posture

• Both the posture and body language displayed by individuals can provide good indicators as to their feelings, relationship, level of connection and social standing. This is generally understood through indicators such as direction of lean, arm positioning and body orientation. Leaning into or away from a conversational partner can reveal the level of involvement of both parties, while mimicking and shadowing are usually seen as signs of affinity.
  
  

Cultural Differences

• While some aspects of nonverbal communication like body language and facial expression tend to be universal, others such as hand gestures and level of speech can vary by culture and nationality. Traditionally, some cultures are more reserved in their movements and the tone of their voice, but this does not necessarily denote a lack of enthusiasm or involvement. When observing cross-cultural communications, it is important to consider both the verbal and nonverbal messages.