We communicate with our body as much as we do with our words, sometimes more! Here are some tips:
1. Notice different native English speakers' body language and imitate:
a. Your eyebrows should move up and down on stressed words or questions.
b. Drop your chin on stressed words.
c. Your voice should go up and down in pitch.
2. While listening to someone else:
a. Nod up and down to show you understand.
b. Say, "I see." or "I understand."
c. Maintain eye contact.
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These tips are incredibly important. AS native English speakers, we use much more than our voice to communicate. If you are trying to learn to communicate like native English speakers, practicing these types of body language will be a great help.
ReplyDeleteI know that as an American, I was very surprised to discover many years ago that in Cambodia and Laos, it is considered rude and aggressive to maintain eye contact. In American culture, it feels as though the person who doesn't look us in the eye may be untrustworthy. And those who do maintain eye contact are seen as trustworthy, open, and friendly. What a totally opposite meaning different cultures have given to the same body language, eye contact!
ReplyDeleteThe suggestion to nod up and down is simple but very important. I have many friends who are Indian and who show agreement or understanding by tilting their heads from side-to-side. This motion can add confusion to the conversation in an American context, as it can be mistaken for dismissiveness to those who are unfamiliar with the culture.
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