Demonstrative Communication Issues - Essay Example

Communication, therefore, becomes an important medium of exchanging messages to dispel doubts and avert situations that could hitherto create unseen problems. Most importantly, in a highly diverse society in the current era of rapid globalization and advancing technology, effective communication becomes the major enabling element for promoting cross-cultural understanding and resolving conflicts amicably. Hence, within the wider scope of human interaction, the various modes of verbal and non-verbal communication facilitate the development of mutually beneficial bonds. Demonstrative or non-verbal communication especially becomes highly pertinent as it can create misunderstandings or resolve differences between two people to forge long-lasting associations.

The non-verbal formats of communication are very important elements that send critical messages to the speaker as well as to the listener. The sender and receiver both are keys to demonstrative communication. These messages are sent through body language vis-à-vis gestures, behavior, tone of voice that is used in conversation, physical appearance and dress code, etc. They are important elements to disseminate essential information like sincerity, consciousness, confidence, and integrity of the individuals (Guirdham, 2002).

Facial expressions strongly send messages of personal emotions. They reflect the positive or negative sentiments of the sender or receiver when messages are sent or acknowledged. Different meanings are attached to myriad facial expressions. A smile shows a happy demeanor while a grimace shows distaste. These can also carry different messages to different cultures. Negative expressions tend to spoil relations and create animosity. Grin is another facial expression with an ambiguous message that may convey a happy state, and interest, or even reflect arrogance. But mostly, a smile expresses a positive feeling as a result of finding something funny in the communicated message. It is therefore construed as positive communication. I try not to grimace even when something does not please me as it might adversely impact social or professional relationships. Indeed, facial expressions are critical factors that carry often carry different messages in different cultures. In Arabic culture, too much smiling reflects shallowness.

Body language is vital means of expressing the moods and attitudes of individuals. A slouched posture or fidgeting often indicates discomfort while an upright position shows confidence. Eye contact reveals that a person would be honest in his communication and indicates confidence in his knowledge of the subject that he/she believes can be communicated. On the other hand, if an individual is either looking down or focusing elsewhere, he is either lacking in confidence or has not been honest. As such, his verbal communication would be less effective and would not promote trust. Listening intently is also a very crucial aspect of nonverbal communication that helps develop mutual trust and confidence. In the professional arena, it serves as an important tool for reassuring colleagues and teammates or subordinates that their viewpoints are being listened to. In an office, listening intently to the problems of others helps to sort them out early and facilitates in creating an environment of shared learning and mutual respect.

Another very significant format of demonstrative communication is the tone of voice while exchanging messages or information. The tone of the individual is a powerful tool that can send strong positive or negative emotions. When one is stumbling with words or is incoherent in his conversation, it reveals his/her nervousness or lack of confidence. The messages sent in sharp and succinct tones reflect impatience or an attitude of confrontation. Yelling is another highly negative attribute that adversely influences human relationships. But when messages are conveyed calmly and coherently, they show a positive attitude toward the sender and his/her confident demeanor. In this case, positive emotions are generated within the receiver who would receive the same in a way that would strengthen the inter-persona bond.