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Effective Nonverbal Communication at Work

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Effective Nonverbal Communication at Work
Steven D. Gubbins

Indiana Wesleyan University

BBAO58

ADM201 Principles of Self-Management

February 23, 2011

Dean Moore, Professor

I have read and understand the plagiarism policy as outlined in the syllabus and the sections in the Student Bulletin relating to the IWU Honesty/Cheating Policy. By affixing this statement to the title page of my paper, I certify that I have not cheated or plagiarized in the process of completing this assignment. If it is found that cheating and/or plagiarism did take place in the writing of this paper, I understand the possible consequences of the act/s, which could include expulsion from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Effective Nonverbal Communication at Work Success in leading and functioning within any organization depends upon the effective use of nonverbal communication. On the factory floor or in the corner office, getting things done requires employees and managers alike to become skilled at reading others and emitting appropriate nonverbal cues that support their messages. The effectual exchange of ideas and clear delivery of instructions relies on something more than selecting the “right” words. As we will see, most of the communication process takes place in the realm of the unspoken.
Understanding Nonverbal Communication Anthropologist Ray Birdwhistell asserted that 95 percent of communication is unconsciously expressed through subtle body movements and posturing (Talley, 2010). Further scientific analysis reveals that up to 55 percent is comprised of bodily movements and gestures, while as much as 38 percent is tone of voice (Rane, 2010). From these cues, the listener receives personal feelings, emotions, and attitudes (Rane, 2010). In a work environment, a study of gestures and facial expressions is only the beginning (Reiman, 2007). Nonverbal communication

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