Summary

Workplace listening and nonverbal communication, which is all unwritten and unspoken messages that are expressed through eye contact, facial expression, body language and such, are two important aspects of the world of business communication. Possessing the resources and knowledge of these topics gives anyone the upper hand as far as how they are portrayed and communicate with their surroundings, and how they are able to properly master the art of listening.
Listening is not only an automatic response to noise, but is a critical employee and management skill that leads to career success, organization effectiveness and worker satisfaction. It is most important because of the amount of time one spends doing it: “Most workers spend 30 to 45 percent of their communication time listening, while executives spend 60 to 70 percent of their communication time listening.”[1][1] Avoiding poor listening habits, deciphering the various types of workplace listening, knowing about the listening process and its barriers, and mastering the ten keys to building powerful listening skills, are all the tools one needs to be a complete and effective listener in the professional world.Nonverbal communication is defined as all unwritten and unspoken messages, both intentional and unintentional: eye contact, facial expression, body movements, appearance, etc. Awareness about this topic is extremely important because it is said that up to 92% of communication between two individuals is nonverbal. Therefore, understanding the functions and various forms of nonverbal communication, and studying the techniques for improving nonverbal communication skills in the workplace, are all necessary in order to become an effective communicator.
[1][1]Guffey, Rhodes and Rogin. (2007) Business Communication: Process and Product Brief Canadian Edition. Thomson-Nelson.