Beyond words: 15 nonverbal ways to communicate across cultures.
- Barbara Hawley
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
Is anything more awkward than attempting to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak your language? It doesn’t have to be! Here are 15 nonverbal ways to connect without words.
1. Offer a warm, genuine smile.
2. Use open body language: with your arms relaxed, face the person directly to show you’re approachable.
3. Engage in gentle eye contact to communicate attentiveness and respect.
4. Nod or bow slightly to subtly acknowledge their presence and show respect.
5. Gesture in welcome—extend your hand palm-up as an invitation to sit or come closer.
6. Place hands over heart as a silent way to say, “I care” or “You’re welcome.”
7. A light wave can be a friendly greeting or farewell; be aware that some cultures see it as a negative motion.
8. Sit or stand at their level to create a sense of equality.
9. Guide with open palms: use your hands to gently guide them toward seating, food, or restrooms.
10. Openly offer refreshment by presenting food or drink.
Use universal symbols: clocks, signage, visual cues.
Respect personal space, which may differ between cultures.
13. Use gestures for cues such as opening the car door where they’ll sit or showing them where to set bags.
14. Use expressive facial cues; nod to show encouragement, raise your eyebrows in delight or surprise.
Clap softly to show approval and shared excitement.
👏🏽Tip: Make a fun game by using nonverbal gestures with kids and asking how to interpret them.
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