Verbal and Non-verbal Communication

Introduction

Verbal communication is communication that is carried out through the word of mouth. On the other hand, non-verbal communication is the direct opposite of verbal communication. It represents communication that is carried out in other ways than by word of mouth. There are different types of verbal and non-verbal communication. The essay below covers different types of verbal and non-verbal communication. To achieve this, it describes, analyzes and assesses verbal and non-verbal behavior of an individual in a certain law firm.

Description and Analysis

This essay is mainly focused on a young man who was observed for quite some time. His reactions, deeds, words and any other actions that were used for communication were well observed. In the law firm, verbal communication was the main type used during the day. However, this does not mean that there was no form of non-verbal communication. The young man used tonal variation in most of his speeches. This was effective on his listeners since it put emphasis where it was needed. When speaking, this young man also used long and short pauses when in need of putting a point across. This gave his listeners time to digest the information he had put across. It also gave him time to plan his next words or moves.

This young man was involved in numerous activities from time to time. Sometimes, he had to deal with clients whom he had to convince. Other times, he dealt with the juniors with whom he was at ease. He also had superiors to whom he had to speak in a low tone to show respect. He communicated with them differently but still remained professional. This also involved the vast use of non-verbal communication. When communicating with people who were at a distant point, he mainly used non-verbal communication. This included dramatization and gestures. That way, they were able to understand each other. This also happened when speaking to other people secretly. For example, when communicating with his colleagues at meetings, he could use eye contact to gain their attention and then use gestures when speaking to them (Wood, 2009). Thus, he often achieved his purpose of communication. When speaking to his clients, he used a lot of gestures, and it seemed to increase his convincing power. As a lawyer, this was necessary for him, and he seemed to possess it.

The best part was the combination of both verbal and non-verbal communication behavior. This young man seemed to be more effective in his communication when using both methods than when using only one of them. For example, he spoke to his clients in varying tones while dramatizing to the rhythm of his tone. This dramatization was more effective in his speech when it was used. It captured his client’s attention and made his communication effective. Also, he made use of facial expression when speaking to different people at the workplace. This aided in putting emphasis and demonstrating the issues in which he put considerable importance. However, he did not overdo any of these non-verbal communication methods. This ensured that he remained professional all through his dealings with the other people.

Conclusion

The young man was excellent in communicating with other parties in the workplace. This is because he used a combination of both verbal and non-verbal communication. Sometimes, he used either of them and achieved the result of effective communication. Therefore, it was extremely easy for the other people at the workplace to work with him. As a result of his diverse ways and methods of communication, he was the ideal person to study the different kinds of verbal and non-verbal communication. He showed the importance of effective communication in the workplace.