In the previous article in this series, I discussed the difference between verbal and nonverbal communication and looked at how body language plays a vital part in the role of emotion in interpersonal communication. Emotions and communication are intrinsically linked. Your body language communicates energy, passion, reluctance, and a whole range of other emotions. I concluded with the need to gain greater understanding of the connection between emotional intelligence and nonverbal communication in order to use body language more effectively.
In this article I want to dig a little deeper, and gain a greater insight into the art of communicating effectively and the role of emotion in interpersonal communication.
Defining effective verbal and nonverbal communication
Believing that communication is the act of exchanging ideas is too narrow a definition. It is far more than this. Think about the way in which we communicate, how people talk, and the signals they provide. Communication is more than simple words: effective communication is a two-way exchange of information, emotions, and intentions.
Emotional awareness is crucial for recognising and interpreting the emotions of others, which enhances communication effectiveness. When you are able to communicate effectively, you will be able to form deeper relationships, build an alliance of teamwork, commit yourself and others more easily to responsibility, and increase your problem solving ability. To communicate effectively requires adept skills that include listening, assertiveness, nonverbal techniques, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage stress.
Identifying the role of emotional intelligence in interpersonal communication
Emotion plays a large part in our ability to communicate effectively through emotional expressions. The best communicators use emotion in a positive manner, evidencing passion, drive, energy, trust, and calmness. However, this skill is one that needs to be learned: it is a natural human trait for our emotions to cloud our ability to communicate, giving away our feelings and disrupting our ability to communicate effectively.
Regulating emotional responses is essential for maintaining effective communication.
Emotional Intelligence and Expression
Understanding the importance of emotional intelligence in communication
Emotional intelligence (EI) forms the foundation of effective communication. It includes understanding and managing emotions—both your own and others’. This skill is key to recognising emotions, grasping their causes and effects, and using this awareness to guide actions.
In communication, emotional intelligence is crucial for building relationships, resolving conflicts, and expressing emotions with clarity and respect. People with high EI skillfully navigate complex social situations, empathise with others, and communicate effectively. They stay attuned to how their emotions impact behaviour, managing them constructively.
Emotional intelligence is essential for effective expression. High-EI individuals recognise and understand others’ emotions, using this insight to guide communication. They express emotions authentically, fostering trust and strengthening relationships. Conversely, low-EI individuals may struggle with emotional awareness and control, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings.
Nonverbal Communication
Exploring the role of nonverbal cues in emotion expression
Nonverbal communication powerfully expresses emotions, enabling individuals to convey feelings without words. Cues like body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice communicate emotions from joy and excitement to sorrow and anger.
Nonverbal cues convey emotions subtly and with nuance. For example, a gentle touch or warm smile can express affection, while a firm handshake or direct gaze signals confidence. Such signals often speak louder than words, adding deeper meaning to interactions.
Nonverbal cues are crucial for emotion regulation, helping individuals manage their own emotions and respond to others’. Deep breathing or relaxation can calm oneself, while a soothing voice or gentle touch can comfort others. Mastering nonverbal communication enhances emotional expression and regulation, leading to more meaningful interactions.
The Impact of Positive Emotions
Benefits of positive emotions in enhancing communication
Positive emotions like happiness, excitement, and gratitude enhance communication by building trust, strengthening relationships, and improving skills. Research shows that these emotions boost social connection, sharpen communication abilities, and even benefit physical health.
Positive emotions foster clear and respectful expression. A warm smile or gentle touch shows affection, while a firm handshake or direct gaze signals confidence. Such expressions create a welcoming, open environment for communication.
Positive emotions are vital for emotion regulation, helping individuals manage their own feelings and respond to others’. Techniques like positive self-talk and visualisation calm oneself, while a soothing voice or gentle touch comforts others. Harnessing positive emotions enhances communication, builds stronger relationships, and fosters a productive environment.
Stress: the devil that destroys effective communication
The major road block in establishing and continuing effective communication is stress, which often leads to negative emotions. This may be caused by a number of factors – some work related, others of a more personal nature – but whatever the cause, surrender to stress results in a lessened ability to listen and read other people as well as an increased likelihood of giving out false signals.
When poor communication is stress-led, all parties can degenerate to knee-jerk reaction. An emotionally intelligent person is better able to manage their stress and reactions as well as the reactions of others.
Everyday exercises to help manage stress
When considering the role of emotion in interpersonal communication, stress management is one of the top strategies to adopt. When you are able to manage stress in a variety of situations, not only will you communicate more effectively but you will earn the reputation of being a calm and fast-thinker, and able decision maker.
If you realise that you are becoming stressed, here are a few everyday exercises to help you manage stress levels and communicate in a calmer, more effective manner:
- Take time to calm down, and think before speaking
- Breath slowly, relax your muscles, and think of a positive image
- See the bright side of the situation, and take things a little less seriously. Look for ways to diffuse conflict, such as sharing a funny story
- Use a care-fronting rather than confronting approach
4 steps to remain stress free and communicate more effectively
- Take a moment to breath
Don’t rush to respond. Take a second or two to breathe, gather thoughts, and process information received. Don’t think it negative to ask for clarification of a question or previous statement – this gives you time to think about how to answer. - Communicate one point at a time
Listeners have a limited time-frame of concentration. It is better to communicate one point at a time, use examples to clarify your position, and allow the other person a chance to respond accordingly. This gives you a chance to consider reaction, while drawing the correspondent into a more meaningful exchange, building mutual trust and respect. - Use body language effectively
Think about your body language as you speak. Maintain eye contact, speak in an even tone, and speak clearly and concisely. Choose words carefully, relax, and open yourself to the communication exchange. - It helps to clarify your position
Having spoken, summarise your position and what you have said. Then allow the other correspondent to talk. Even if there is silence, don’t feel the need to continue.
In later articles, I’ll explore further communication techniques as we build out the foundations of the deeper emotional intelligence that will empower the effectiveness of your communication capabilities.
Contact Primeast today to discover how an Emotional Intelligence course will develop and embed effective personal skills in the workplace, for leaders, managers, and employees.
