Nonverbal Communication Worksheet

Understanding nonverbal communication

Nonverbal communication, as defined by Mast & Cousin (2013), refers to communicative behaviors that lack linguistic content, meaning that it conveys information without the use of words. This form of communication is predominantly expressed through bodily cues, including facial expressions (e.g., smiling or frowning), gestures (e.g., a thumb-up or shaking hands), and posture. Furthermore, it encompasses paralinguistic features such as the volume, pitch, and speed of speech. These elements of nonverbal communication serve various functions, such as coordinating language, facilitating interpersonal interactions, expressing emotions, and conveying attitudes (Mast & Cousin, 2013).

Nonverbal communication rules are not universal; they tend to vary depending on the context, with each situation dictating its specific set of guidelines. Additionally, individuals may exhibit distinct nonverbal behaviors influenced by their cultural backgrounds or personal experiences (Phutela, 2015). The forms of nonverbal communication are vast, extending from the way we enter a room for an important meeting, such as an interview with a new patient, to how we sit during a conversation and the gestures we make while talking.

How to use our Nonverbal Communication Worksheet template

Our Nonverbal Communication Worksheet is designed to assist clients in becoming more aware of their nonverbal communication and how it impacts their interactions with others. Non verbal Communication Worksheets encourage clients to observe and reflect on their own nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, and eye contact, which can be essential in understanding emotions and building stronger interpersonal connections.

To use this worksheet, follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the template

Click " Use template" to access the worksheet using the Carepatron app. For a PDF copy, just choose "Download."

Step 2: Give your client a copy

Provide your client with a copy of the worksheet, either digitally through the Carepatron app or as a physical PDF. Make sure they have enough time to read through the sections and complete the exercises thoughtfully.

Step 3:  Explain the sections

Walk your client through the key sections of the worksheet:

• Understanding nonverbal cues: Guide them in identifying specific examples of nonverbal behaviors they may exhibit in different scenarios.
• Observing nonverbal communication: Encourage them to observe the nonverbal cues of people around them, helping them build awareness of how body language and expressions communicate emotions.
• Matching nonverbal and verbal communication: Explain how mismatched nonverbal cues can affect the meaning of what’s being communicated. Help them reflect on how this applies to their own experiences.
• Practicing nonverbal skills: Suggest that they focus on one nonverbal skill, such as maintaining eye contact or using open body language, to improve communication in their personal or professional interactions.
• Feedback from others: Recommend that they ask a trusted person for feedback on their nonverbal communication, reinforcing the value of external perspectives.

Step 4: Reflect and discuss

Once your client has completed the worksheet, schedule a session to discuss their observations and reflections. Explore how their nonverbal behaviors influence their relationships and emotional experiences. Use this conversation to identify any areas for improvement or further exploration.

Benefits of using our template

Our Nonverbal Communication Worksheet is a valuable resource for enhancing your client's communication skills in various settings, from classrooms to professional interactions. Here’s how it can help:

Enhanced self-awareness

By completing the worksheet, clients become more attuned to their own nonverbal behaviors. This increased self-awareness allows them to recognize how their facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice affect their interactions, helping them adjust their communication style when needed.

Improved interpersonal relationships

Understanding and interpreting nonverbal cues from others can lead to better communication and stronger relationships. Clients will learn to recognize subtle signals from those around them, improving empathy, reducing misunderstandings, and fostering more positive interactions.

Better emotional expression

The worksheet encourages clients to explore how their nonverbal communication reflects their emotions. This can help them express feelings more clearly and authentically, making it easier to connect with others on an emotional level.

Increased confidence in communication

As clients practice observing and refining their nonverbal communication, they may feel more confident in both personal and professional settings. The ability to communicate effectively without relying solely on words can enhance their presence and influence in conversations.

Support for goal setting and progress tracking

By using the worksheet, clients can set clear, actionable goals for improving their nonverbal communication. Tracking progress over time helps reinforce the importance of these behaviors and motivates clients to continue practicing and refining their skills.

How to improve nonverbal communication skills

Nonverbal communication skills can be challenging for some people to enhance because they involve subtle behaviors and cues that may not always be easy to recognize or control.  Here are some tips you can give your clients to help them improve their nonverbal communication skills:

Encourage awareness of body language

Help your clients become more mindful of their own body language, as it plays a crucial role in communication, often conveying messages even when spoken or written words are not used. Nonverbal cues like posture, gestures, and facial expressions can send powerful messages, whether intentional or not. For clients who find it challenging to control their body language, encourage them to first observe their default behaviors. Suggest that they focus on adopting an open posture—such as sitting with shoulders back and avoiding crossed arms—which can make them appear more approachable and engaged.

By incorporating these communication techniques, clients can begin to send positive nonverbal signals that enhance their overall interactions. Over time, this awareness will help them adjust their body language more consciously, improving their ability to communicate effectively without relying solely on spoken or written words.

Focus on eye contact

For many people, maintaining the right amount of eye contact can be tricky. Some clients may find it uncomfortable or intimidating, while others may struggle with making eye contact at all. Remind them that eye contact is a key way to show attentiveness and respect, but it’s important to strike a balance. Too little eye contact can make them seem disinterested or evasive, while too much can feel confrontational.

Guide them to practice maintaining eye contact for a few seconds at a time, gradually increasing as they become more comfortable. The goal is to find a natural rhythm that matches the conversation’s tone.

Modulate tone of voice

Your clients’ tone of voice plays a significant role in how their messages are received. Sometimes, they may not even be aware that their tone might be conveying something different from what they intend. Encourage them to practice varying their tone depending on the situation. For example, a calm and steady tone is suitable for sensitive conversations, while a more energetic tone works well in positive or casual exchanges.

You can suggest that they practice in front of a mirror or record themselves speaking to better understand how their tone comes across and how it can be adjusted to improve communication.

Observe others' nonverbal cues

Many clients may struggle with interpreting others’ nonverbal communication, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Encourage your clients to actively observe others’ body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice during their interactions. They can look for signs of discomfort, interest, agreement, or disagreement in the way others express themselves.

This practice helps build empathy and can make your clients more responsive and in tune with others’ emotions, improving their communication skills in social and professional settings.

Practice active listening

Active listening is not just about hearing what someone is saying; it’s about understanding the message and responding appropriately. Clients who are focused on their own nonverbal communication may find it difficult to give their full attention to others. Suggest that they use their own body language to signal attentiveness, such as nodding occasionally, leaning forward, or maintaining eye contact. These nonverbal cues not only show they are listening but also encourage the speaker to open up and feel heard.

References

Mast, M., & Cousin, G. (2013). The role of nonverbal communication in medical interactions. In Oxford Handbooks Online. Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199795833.013.021

Phutela, D. (2015). The importance of non-verbal communication. the IUP Journal of Soft Skills, 9(4). https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2715432