Paraverbal communication refers to the nonverbal elements of speech accompanying verbal messages, such as tone of voice, pitch, speed, volume, pauses, and emphasis.
Paraverbal communication provides additional meaning and context to the words being spoken.
Here is a guide on paraverbal communication and its importance in the workplace.
Definitions
Paraverbal communication: The non-verbal vocal elements accompanying speech, such as tone, pitch, volume, etc.
Non-verbal communication: Communication that does not involve spoken words, such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures.
Verbal communication: The use of words to share information between individuals.
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Background on Paraverbal Communication
Paraverbal communication conveys important contextual information through vocal cues. It helps express emotions, clarify meaning, and influence how the verbal message is interpreted.
The main components of paraverbal communication are:
Pitch: How high or low is the voice? Higher pitches often convey emphasis or excitement.
Volume: How loudly or softly someone speaks. Volume can reflect confidence, aggression, or other emotional states.
Tone: The quality of the voice that conveys attitude, emotions, and nuance.
Rate/Speed: The pace at which someone speaks. Faster rates can signal urgency or excitement.
Pauses: Brief stops in speech. Pauses allow time for reflection and processing.
Maximizing Paraverbal Communication
Being aware of paraverbal cues and using them effectively enhances workplace communication. Here are some tips:
- Vary tone, pitch, volume, rate, and pauses to add meaning to your message.
- Use confident, warm vocal tones to build rapport with colleagues.
- Slow your rate of speech when sharing complex information to aid comprehension.
- Adjust volume appropriately for the situation, whether in one-on-one or group settings.
- Use strategic pauses to emphasize important points or let the information sink in.
Recognizing Paraverbal Communication
Paying attention to paraverbal cues from others provides valuable insight. Signs that paraverbal communication is happening include:
- Changes in tone that reveal shifts in emotion.
- Increased volume and pitch when emphasizing a critical point.
- A slower rate of speech when describing complex processes.
- Pauses that allow the listener time to process information.
Knowing these vocal cues allows you to better understand unspoken meanings – especially within business presentations.
The Value of Paraverbal Communication in the Workplace
Paraverbal communication enhances workplace interactions by:
- Conveying emotion and attitude – Vocal cues communicate how someone feels about the message.
- Clarifying meaning – Emphasis through tone, volume, and pacing highlights essential details.
- Building rapport – Warm, confident vocal tones facilitate trust and relationships.
- Aiding comprehension – Strategic pauses and modulated rate allow processing time.
- Influencing interpretations – Vocal cues shape how the verbal message is understood.
Features and Benefits
Key features of paraverbal communication in the workplace:
- Nuanced vocal cues like tone, pitch, and pace.
- Strategic use of volume, pauses and emphasis.
- Adaptability to various workplace situations.
These provide benefits such as:
- Enhanced understanding between colleagues.
- Stronger interpersonal relationships.
- Clear communication of priorities and meaning.
- Reduced miscommunications.
5 Tips for Applying Paraverbal Communication Skills
- Speak clearly at an appropriate volume for the setting.
- Modulate your tone and pace to convey meaning and emphasis.
- Use pauses strategically to allow for processing time.
- Adjust the pitch purposefully to highlight important information.
- Be aware of others’ paraverbal cues to improve understanding.
How to Get Started with Paraverbal Communication
Follow these steps to begin applying paraverbal communication skills:
- Pay attention – Notice how tone, volume, pace, etc., modify meaning in speech to assist the development of your presentation skills.
- Record yourself – Identify your own paraverbal patterns through recordings and interactive learning.
- Set communication goals – Determine areas to enhance, like conveying warmth.
- Practice consciously – When speaking, focus on adjusting vocal elements.
- Get feedback – Ask trusted colleagues for input on your paraverbal skills.
Conclusion
Paraverbal communication is a crucial workplace skill.
Conscious use of vocal cues like tone, emphasis, and pacing improves understanding, relationships, and communication impact.
Noticing para verbal elements in others’ speeches also provides valuable insight within project-based learning.
With practice, paraverbal communication can become a natural enhancement to workplace interactions.
With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.