CAR: Lesson - Collaborative Interactions: Body Language

Image: a person hides their face in a turtleneck sweater.Collaborative Interactions: Body Language

Within this module we have reviewed the four main communication skills needed for success in collaborative interactions: speaking, listening, reading and writing. When categorized, the four skills can be identified as verbal (speaking and listening) or non-verbal (reading and writing). This lesson will focus on another non-verbal form of communication that speaks volumes about our level of professionalism, personal traits, and willingness to collaborate for corporate/community success: body language.

Note: This lesson presents generally accepted norms for the United States. Be aware that what is OK in the U.S. may not be appropriate if you visit another country or are working with a group that has different cultural norms.

Communications: Body Language

What is body language? It is our human ability to communicate our opinions and values through our non-verbal expressions/gestures. Review the image below and make a mental note of how many of the expressions/gestures you use.

Image: a series of cartoon facial expressions

Why is body language important?

Body language is important because it communicates our thoughts, intentions, motives, agreeability, and understanding. This often happens in an unintentional way, meaning we are not always aware of the signals or how our bodies communicate by our posture, eye contact, and personal space. Depending on where we place our arms and hands and how our bodies are positioned in relation to the speaker characterizes our posture. If our hands are folded in front of our chest or our back is turned away from the speaker, we are communicating that we are closed and unreceptive to what is being shared. On the flip side of the example, if our arms and hands are open or naturally at our side and we are facing or even leaning into the speaker, we are communicating that we are open and receptive to what is being shared. Knowing how to hold your body is just as important as where to place your body in relation to others. Knowing how close to place your body to someone else demonstrates an understanding of personal space.

Personal Space

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, personal space is the distance from another person at which one feels comfortable when talking to or being next to that other person. Unless you share a positive, personal relationship, like with your family and friends, try to keep at least 4-8 feet away when speaking and listening to others. Keeping a proper distance shows the speaker that you respect them. However, the question comes up: if we are at least 4-8 feet away from the speaker or our audience, how do we connect with the speaker? One way is by maintaining eye contact.

Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact when speaking and listening shows respect, attentiveness, sincerity, and confidence. For some, maintaining eye contact during collaborative interactions comes naturally. For others, there are skill building exercises that help to improve our ability in this area. Below are some tips and exercises from to improve eye contact:

  • If holding eye contact is too difficult at first, try focusing on the spot between the other person’s eyes for a second or two. Practice this during short conversations with people you trust, then move on to direct eye contact. Once you’re comfortable, try it all again with people you don’t know as well.
  • We recommend maintaining eye contact for 4 to 5 seconds, gently looking away for a moment, then repeating. If you look at someone 100 percent of the time, it can come off as intimidating or creepy.
  • It’s easier to keep eye contact when you’re listening than when you’re speaking. If you have to look away more often while you’re speaking, that’s perfectly normal.
  • Getting comfortable with eye contact takes time. It may be difficult at first, but it’s an invaluable skill that’s worth the effort. Keep practicing!

Body Language Video

Let's take a moment to see an example of body language in a workplace. Watch the video below and take note of what you already knew and what you've learned about body language.

RESOURCES IN THIS MODULE ARE OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES (OER) OR CREATED BY GAVS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. SOME IMAGES USED UNDER SUBSCRIPTION.