Demonstrative Communication

Demonstrative Communication Nicole Mills BCOM/275 02/13/2012 Mark Trollinger

Demonstrative Communication Demonstrative Communication Research has shown that 93% of communication is unspoken or unwritten ("Maximumadvantage", 2011). Words make up a mere seven percent of communication, while tone of voice makes up 38% and physiology 55% ("Maximumadvantage", 2011). Demonstrative communication includes nonverbal and unwritten communication and involves things such as appearance, physical space, gestures, posture, facial expressions, eye contact, and tone of voice. Demonstrative communication is the process of sending and receiving messages, a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of signs, symbols, or behavior (Merriam-Webster, 2012). The expression of the sender plays a

significant role in how the receiver will interpret the message. Demonstrative communication can be effective or ineffective, positive or negative, for the sender and receiver. Demonstrative communication involves active listening and responding to complete the process. Effective or Ineffective Effective communication is the basis for constructive interactions in both social and business settings. To be defined as an individual, share ideas, or present opinions, a person must possess good verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Communication skills are equally important for the receiver to have. In accordance with Missouri Western State University's Laurel J. Dunn, a person can decipher nonverbal communication beginning in early childhood, but a persons interpretation becomes more accurate as he or she grows older (Livestrong.com, 2012). According to "Livestrong.com" (2012), Nonverbal cues are responsible for the vast majority of the message you send. Even if your verbal message is flawless, you still might communicate ineffectively. For example, if you are interviewing for a job and have excellent experience, education and appearance, you still might not get the job because you rarely make eye contact or look at the clock several times during the interview (Effective Verbal & Non-Verbal

Demonstrative Communication Communication). Because communication is predominantly nonverbal, a person will have a positive response to a negative comment if the sender presents the message with a welcoming smile, happy tone of voice, and direct eye contact. When the message conflicts with the senders nonverbal message, the communication become ineffective. However, when the senders nonverbal interaction coincides with the message, the communication can be more effective. Positive or Negative

A message can have a positive or negative affect depending on how it is communicated. If the communication was handled effectively, unfortunate circumstances can have a positive outcome. However, if communication is handled poorly, even a positive situation can have a negative result. Nonverbal gestures and tones are more important than words alone. For example, a manager may have to demote an employee because he or she is unable to keep up with the workload. If presented in an enriching manner, the bad news may still result in a positive outcome. The employee may find relief in the demotion, rather than becoming upset with the company. In contrast, a positive situation, such as an award may not have a positive outcome if presented in disapproving way. The employee, although being recognized for his or her efforts, may believe the manager does not think he or she deserves the award. Listening and Responding The University of Colorado has found that people are often distracted by other stimuli when they are supposed to be listening to the presenter (Livestrong.com, 2012). During an argument, people frequently formulate a response while the other person is still speaking (Livestrong.com, 2012). This creates misunderstanding, as a portion of the message remains unheard by the receiver. Active listening involves clearing ones mind of distractions and focusing exclusively on the person talking (Livestrong.com, 2012). Once the speaker has finished talking, the person listening should summarize what he or she has said before replying or

Demonstrative Communication rebutting (Livestrong.com, 2012). Active listening can help bridge the gap between effective verbal and nonverbal communication (Livestrong.com, 2012). People often respond by what they see, not necessarily by what they are told. Constructive feedback is an essential element of

the communication process. For example, if a person gives a coworker a stick of mint gum, he or she might be hinting that he or she has bad breathe without saying it in words. It is important that the receiver does not become defensive, and accepts the feedback with a positive attitude. Conclusion The majority of communication encompasses body language, physiology, and nonverbal communication. Effective communication establishes healthy relationships in social, personal, and work environments. Through effective verbal and nonverbal communication, a person can share ideas, offer opinions, teach, and define the person as an individual. An individual can undoubtedly understand coworkers, family, and friends if he or she is an effective communicator. Without valuable verbal abilities, a person is unable to provide correct and unambiguous information to others, or understand information provided to him or her. It is imperative to provide the accurate verbal information, because one mistaken word can transform a message, causing problems ranging from hurt feelings to major catastrophes.

Demonstrative Communication References Maximumadvantage. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.maximumadvantage.com/nonverbal-communication/non-verbalcommunication-demonstration.html Merriam-Webster. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/communication LIVESTRONG.COM. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/192035-effective-verbal-non-verbalcommunication/