Important Issues during communication using Nonverbal communication.

Important Issues during communication using Nonverbal communication.

 

 Space, Surroundings and Time.

a) Space language

Nonverbal signals which are mutually understod by the sender and the receiver originate from many sources.  One such important source is the space around us which communicates in its own way. Communication experts call the dimension of communication ‘proxemics’. It is the study of how we communicate with the space around us. Proxemics may also be called space language.  The word ‘space’ here means the distance between the sender and the receiver in oral communication. This distance called ‘proximity’ can be divided into the following categories:

(i)                 Intimate space language (physical contact to 18 inches): Here very close contact is maintained within the space of 18 inches.

It is the most suitable distance for use of body language because most of our body movements originate from this area.

Only very special people like our family members, relatives, and close friends enter this space.

In often speak in whispers or at low pitch and low volume to them. Within this small circle, body language is used more than words. Handshakes, a pat on the back, eye contact, etc are very commonly used in this space.

Intimate space is very suitable for highly confidential talks and decisions concerning sensitive matters.

(ii)               Personal space language (18 inches to 4 ft): Personals space extends from 18 inches to 4 feet. Here we use above the closed circle of intimacy around us. We have normal conversation with our close friend, colleagues and visitors. Communication in this space is also largely personal in nature. But it is generally relaxed and casual.

(iii)              Social space language (4 to 12 feet): Social space extends from 4 feet to 12 feet. This space is used mostly for formal and official relationship. Most of the business communications take place in this area.

Communications in social space are dominated by reason and planning rather than and emissions and feelings.

Therefore, it is the most important spatial dimension in business communication.

This space is mostly used for formal and official relationships. Most of the business communication takes place within this area.

(iv)             Public space language: (> 12 feet as far as you can hear): This larger area extends beyond 12 feet.

  Communication in this space is highly formal and objective. High pitch voice is used so as to be heard by a much larger group.

 Public address system may have to be used in case the space extends as far as we can see. Election rallies are examples of public space language.

(v)               Fixed and semi-fixed space: Fixed space refers to permanent features like room sizes, walls, building and its total capacity; etc .These permanent features determine who interacts with whom, how and for what purpose. 

In semi fixed space the physical features are changeable and can be rearranged. This flexibility permits the use of variety of spaces to conduct different types of communications.

 For example, the same furniture can be arranged or rearranged for a presentation in an interview or group discussion. Thus, fixed and semi fixed spaces have important implications for communication.

b) Surroundings

The physical environment around us speaks their own nonverbal language. Surroundings consist of a large number of objects Two parts of surrounding are colourand layout. We get meanings from our surroundings. Similarly, our choice of colour and design give signals to others.

(i)                 Colour: Colour has been used to convey meaning since time immemorial. Different colours are associated with different attitudes behaviour patterns and cultural background. White is generally associated with peace and chastity. Pink, red, yellow green and blue represent cheerfulness and pleasant condition. Black and grey are associated with dull mood and negative feelings. Right choice of colour for our clothing, home and office interiors and decoration pieces is helpful in effective in communication. Indifference to choice of colour is a sign of poor cultural background.

(ii)               Layout

The space arrangement of an office, the furniture and its design, etc; are important in communication. A taste fully decorated office creates good impression. The layout and design of an office also projects the image of the organization. Therefore, expert designers are employed to do up the interior or design of offices.

c) Time:

All communications must be rightly timed to be effective. 

There is a saying that ‘time is money’. Under time language we send out signals indicating the importance of time to us. Time management has become an important of business management. Business enterprises employ several time saving devices in offices, etc.