Communication extends beyond the words we say. Body language is an important piece of the communication puzzle. In fact, a large portion of communication is nonverbal, and each country and community has its own movements that communicate different things - head movements, hand symbols, and gestures.
Six Body Language Practices
As you begin to settle into your new city, begin practicing some of these movements to “speak the language.” You can practice with your family or with other Interstaff nurses at your hospital.
- Personal Space is often important to people in the United States. Give others space, as much as the circumstance allows, whether standing in line at the grocery store or communicating with the family members of patients. Be on the lookout for signs of discomfort from the person near you, such as shrugging away or sighing, as that may indicate the person feels their space is being invaded.
- Eye Contact is very important. While in other places it is seen as a sign of respect to avoid eye contact with those in power or our elders, making eye contact is considered a sign of respect here in the US- this is a cultural nuance. Whether you’re speaking with your nurse manager, your neighbor, or a new friend, look them in the eye as you communicate. It opens up the door for trust. This will take practice, as to do it well involves looking at someone’s face - not necessarily in the eyes - and occasionally looking away.
- Shaking Hands is common when meeting someone for the first time, or when an introduction is taking place. Typically, a hand is extended, and you will shake with your right hand, your joined hands moving up and down. While you don’t want to hang on with too strong of a grip, a weak handshake can give the appearance of weakness and insecurity. Again, this is great to practice. To start, take your cues from others and match the way they grip your hand.
- Folded Arms, folded together across the chest, are considered an attempt to put a barrier between you and someone or something you don’t like. This stance conveys defensiveness or a negative attitude.
- Smiling is a way of exhibiting warmth and contentment. It can help put others around you at ease when you greet them, especially patients and their families. You’ll find some Americans will smile at strangers as they pass in the street as well as a gesture of goodwill.
- Nodding means different things in different cultures. When speaking with an American, they might nod occasionally to indicate that they are listening, and not necessarily that they agree with you. Take note of how others are doing this and begin to practice.
As you move throughout daily life, pay attention to the way those around you are communicating through their gestures and bodies. It may take time to adjust, but it will become natural before long!
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