This course explores the ways humans communicate without using words, including our gestures, facial expressions, posture, and physical appearance. We will especially focus on how to read nonverbal cues from others and how to become more aware of what you are really saying with your own nonverbal cues. These skills are applicable anywhere from the job interview and work environment to interpersonal relationships.

The ability to manage, understand and use nonverbal cues effectively is a critical skill in the workplace. Emotional recognition, for instance, has been cited as an indirect predictor of annual income. Researchers found from a sample of employee-peer-supervisor triads that emotional recognition influenced political skill and interpersonal facilitation, and ultimately, those who had superior capabilities in these arenas earned higher salaries. 

Additionally, many leading service organizations intentionally seek out potential employees whose nonverbal behaviors elicit positive customer interactions. 

And before students even get to this point in their career, they are first assessed during job interviews. Contemporary research suggests that these dyadic, face-to-face encounters are strongly influenced by the candidate’s nonverbal behavior – potential employers look for employees who are nonverbally engaging. 

Thus, learning about nonverbal behavior will help students in their job seeking prospects, as well as potentially promote their upward movement in their careers.