Nonverbal and Verbal Communication Cues

Front

Steady Eye Contact

Back

Make direct eye contact during conversation, faces turned toward each other

Front

Avoid Eye Contact

Back

People looking away, at phones, or staring blankly

Front

Upright Posture and Body Positioned Toward Speaker

Back

People sitting or standing straight, alert body position, shoulders back

Front

Poor posture

Back

Slouching, leaning back disengaged, or collapsed posture

Front

Nonverbal Back-channel Cues

Back

Nodding, tilting head thoughtfully, raised eyebrows showing interest, hand gestures that encourage speaking

Front

Nonverbal Back-channel Cues - What NOT to do

Back

Blank facial expressions, no responsive gestures, or dismissive body language

Front

Verbal Back-channel Cues

Back

Saying 'mm-hmm,' 'I see,' 'go on' (mouth slightly open as if responding)

Front

Slightly Raised Eyebrows

Back

Eyebrows lifted in interest or curiosity, engaged facial expression

Front

Smiling

Back

Genuine, warm smiles during conversation, engaged pleasant expressions

Front

Avoid Fidgeting

Back

Calm, still hands, relaxed positioning