Coaching Handbook: An Action Kit for Trainers and Managers

Using and interpreting non-verbal communication

Our bodies, through posture , gesture and facial expression, are constantly sending messages to others. Most of us interpret non-verbal communication on an intuitive level. Body language can support or discount your verbal communication and therefore it is important for coaches to think about both their own, and their coachee s, non-verbal signals. Be wary, however, that movements and gestures sometimes have straightforward physical explanations and it is possible to over analyse everything you see the other person doing, eg someone who is scratching her nose may simply have an itch, rather than be telling a lie.

Effective body language for you as a coach includes:

• Facing the person in a way which is not confrontational.

• Maintaining an open and receptive posture.

• Finding a comfortable seating arrangement that respects the other person s personal space, but enables you to have an open conversation.

• Taking care with your appearance and dressing in a way which is appropriate for your coachee.

• Being aware of your tone of voice and using variety and contrast to enhance your messages. This includes lowering your voice to emphasize important points.

• Matching and mirroring the body language of the speaker without directly copying.

• Showing enthusiasm and sincerity using eye contact, gestures and tone of voice.

• Being aware of facial movements such as smiling, grimacing or frowning. Even small movements such as a raised eyebrow will cause others to make an interpretation of what you are thinking.

When interpreting the coachee s body language:

• Be aware that the same signal may have a variety of different meanings.

• Treat every element of body language as a message. Consider each element and look for any themes or patterns “ it is difficult to properly read a single event, but a cluster of signals may provide you with a more accurate picture.

• If you are making an interpretation of any non-verbal communication, it is always worth checking that you have made the right one.