Demonstrative Communication

Demonstrative Communication

Course: BCOM/275

Date: January 9th, 2012

Demonstrative Communication

Demonstrative communication is defined as the non-verbal communication in which senders and receivers exchange messages and/or feedbacks in an unwritten unspoken wordless manner. Demonstrative communication consists of body postures, facial expressions, tone of voice and many other gestures that can convey the senders’ thoughts and emotions. In my opinion, demonstrative communication is equally or even more common than traditional (oral or written) communication on both conscious and sub-conscious levels.

Demonstrative communication could used to support a sent verbal message, or it could be used as a “stand-alone” method in sending messages or feedbacks. Just like other types of communication, demonstrative communication holds its’ advantages as well as disadvantages for both senders and receivers. As I mentioned previously, encoding and decoding does not require much time and effort when done through demonstrative communication. One can answer to a yes or no question by obviously and simply nodding his/her head with agreement or disagreement.

Gauging someone’s reaction to learn their feedback is another use of demonstrative communication. As a manager, I personally use this technique a lot in the business environment. For example, this method is put to good use when I want to subtly gauge an employee’s reaction regarding implementing a new suggestion or when a new colleague is being introduced to the team. Another advantage of demonstrative communication is when it is used to add to the sender’s charisma especially while in an interview or when meeting someone new. Smiling, smelling fresh, a firm hand shake, being well dressed and speaking with a confident but cheerful tone of voice, all can give an idea of the senders’ nature and...