Improving communication skills is a constant in our lives. We are human, and we need effective and efficient communication on a daily basis. From confirmation and affirmation to answers and insight, we rely on words. We also rely on understanding the way others express them. This is the core of non-verbal language. Sometimes, we detect it quicker and more intensely than the spoken words.

Whether we talk about verbal language or non-verbal, improving communication takes time and patience. We can accomplish this by breaking it into smaller parts. These include:

Differences between non-verbal and verbal language (1)
Utilizing these types in the most effective manner (2)
Impact of active listening (3)
Alternative ideas for resolving communication issues (4)
Understanding the purpose of our communication (5)
Communication styles (6)

(1)When we use non-verbal language, we use cues. These may involve nodding our head, shaking a finger, or using hand gestures. All of these add to our message and we use them in the delivery of our message. For example, we may nod our head when we ask someone a question and we expect a certain answer. We also may nod as a sign of encouragement when someone relates an experience to us.

Shaking a finger at someone sends a confrontational signal. We may do this when we feel angry or disappointed. Parents often use this as a way to show a child he or she misbehaved.

Hand gestures "speak" for themselves. A traffic guard may tell us to "proceed" or "stop," depending on which gesture she uses. These can be positive, as with a gentle and reassuring "come here," or they can be negative, as with someone who "flips us off."

With verbal language, we simply send a message using our words. We let them show our feelings and emotions. If we have a clear purpose for the message, our words convey it.

(2)Effective communication requires a balance of non-verbal and verbal language. If we overload the receiver with a slew of cues, we may create an unintentional distraction. This creates noise, which is anything blocking our message. At times, a few well-placed cues help the receiver understand the intent of our message.

For example, when we feel angry with someone, we may find our words becoming jumbled. This is a common problem because our brain does not receive as much oxygen when we feel angry. Cues, including squinted eyes, raised eyebrows, and a tense body posture, alert the person. This creates a sense of urgency

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