COMM1010 - Lecture 4 - Tips for nonverbal comm

Active listening

Show you’re tuned in with

nods, short responses (“I see,” “right”), and

questions that build on what’s said.

Pause power

A short pause before replying

makes you seem calm, confident, and

thoughtful

Ask, don't assume

Clarify instead of guessing:

“Just to be sure, do you mean…?”

Tone check

Match your tone to your message

End with empathy

Even in disagreement,

phrases like “I understand your point” keep the

conversation open.

Use names

Personalizes and strengthens

connection

Summarize often

Restate key points to confirm 

alignment

Power breath

One deep inhale lowers anxiety and steadies your voice. Do it before important points.

Stand or sit tall

Straight spine = instant confidence boost. You project presence and people listen more

attentively

keyword: straight spine

Eye contact triangle

Gently shift your gaze between the person’s eyes and mouth; it feels natural, not staring.  

Look away briefly every few seconds

keyword: gaze

Anchor your hands

Use calm, deliberate gestures. Avoid fidgeting or hiding hands — visible hands signal honesty

and control.
keyword: hands

Stillness

 When making a key point, hold your body steady. Movement draws attention; stillness commands it.

keword: steady

Mirror lightly

Subtly reflect the other person’s posture or tone as it creates unconscious connection and trust

Keyword: reflect

Control your space

Step forward slightly when speaking to show confidence; step back to invite others in

keyword: invite others, show confidence

Lean in

A small forward lean shows engagement; leaning back too far signals disinterest or dominance.

keword: show engagement 

Smile with eyes

A real smile crinkles the eyes, signaling warmth and authenticity better than a forced grin

keyword: smile