Forms of Nonverbal Communication....

Time: Don’t you hate when people run late? Well if you feel this way it might be because you’re North American!  North Americans and Icelandic cultures for instance put a lot of emphasis on punctuality.  Punctuality in those types of cultures reflects personality and or attitudes of the individual (s).  This is also said in the workplace.  An employee would be reprimanded if they were late to arrive to work, submitting projects and meetings.

Territory: If someone were to stand next to you, would you move away unconsciously?  In some cultures that is exactly what some would do.  We all have “zones” that depicts our comfort level depending on the environment we are in.  There is a “Intimate Zone” (1-1.5 feet), “Personal Zone” (1.5-4 feet), “Social Zone” (4-12 feet), and a “Public Zone” (12 or more feet).  In the workplace, you should be observant of others “comfort zone” mind you as your relationship increase both yours and others zone will change.

Appearance of Business Documents: First impressions etch a image of the business providing the business document.  A question would arise if the document(s) was poorly written, on soiled paper, thoughts were written with no flow or organization.  If this is how this company would present this document, how differently would they conduct business?  Taking the time to “show your best” through writing is the motto to follow.  Use spell check, grammar check and have a second pair of eyes take a glance before sending!

Space: I personally cannot stand a mess, whereas my husband can!  How items are placed in our surroundings paints a picture of who we are, interests and purpose.  In the workplace, how your desk looks tells a story of your organizational skills and how you conduct your work.

Appearance of People: Would you hire someone that didn't wear professional clothes, had messy hair, and no visible grooming?   Your appearance tells a lot about you.  Without speaking, your image speaks for you and therefore you should pay attention to healthy grooming and appearance.  If you have to question what you are wearing, chances are you probably should change it.  If you want others to take you seriously, dress the part!

 Let me know your thoughts !!!