Body movements and posture
This type of nonverbal communication includes your posture, bearing, stance, and subtle movements. Your body posture and movements have an affect on the person you’re speaking to by the way they sit, walk, stand up, or hold their head. If your body looks still and motionless, or relaxed while the person is talking to you there going to think your not really bothered about what they are saying.
Eye contact is mainly an important type of nonverbal communication. The way you look at someone can show many things; including interest, affection, hostility, or attraction. Eye contact is also important in maintaining the flow of conversation and to help the other person understanding what you’re trying to say.
Communicate through touching is also a big part of non-verbal communication. Think about the messages given by the following: a firm handshake, a fearful tap on the shoulder, a warm cuddle, a comforting pat on the back, or a controlling grip on your arm.
You can use physical space to communicate many different nonverbal messages, including signals of intimacy, aggression, dominance, or affection. If a stranger is invading your personal space you would feel awkward and uncomfortable. So we all have the need of our own physical space, although that need differs depending on the culture, the situation, and the closeness of the relationship.
We communicate with our voices, even when we are not using words. Nonverbal speech sounds such as tone, pitch, volume, inflection, rhythm, and rate are important communication elements. When we speak, other people “read” our voices in addition to listening to our words. These nonverbal speech sounds provide subtle but powerful clues into our true feelings and what we really mean. Think about how tone of voice, for example, can indicate sarcasm, anger, affection, or confidence.
Physical factor
Effective communication depends on people being able to see, hear and receive messages
Try to minimise physical barriers such as noise levels, appropriate setting, planning so an interaction is not interrupted, making sure they can be seen fully.
Care value base
Effective communication is part of the value base for Care
Effective communication is therefore a client right.
Effective communication is important if staffs are to foster people's equality, diversity and rights. Explain why this is important.
Warmth
Conveying warmth means to act and be seen as a warm and accepting person
Health workers need to be seen to be non judgemental and a good listener.
Explain the importance of reflective listening here
Sincerity and understanding
Health workers need to have empathy for their clients - to do this they need to learn about their identities, beliefs and cultures
If health workers are sincere and show understanding of their cleints trust will develop.