Thursday, January 17, 2008

Gestures can be used to emphasize or demonstrate a point,

When involved in cross-cultural exchanges, managers are advised to learn some of the gestural vocabulary of the other cultural group.
Gestures can be used to emphasize or demonstrate a point, to regulate a conversation, to present a caring attitude, or [0 indicate a defensive or offensive orientation. In fact, many use gestures to emphasize key words in a message even as they use punctuation or underscoring in written statements. For example, "until the people upstairs The manager watching for these gestures finds it is easier to listen for the important points.
Some gestures look like what they demonstrate, sucl;1 as the size or shape of an object. Such gestures are an attempt to draw a picture of an object, but others are more abstract. For instance, the upraised palms and shrugge4 shoulders gesture of "Who knows?" is abstract, but still easy to understand
Speakers also use gestures to regulate the flow of the communication. When a person waves his hand upward or inward or cups his hand over the ear, it may be an indication to speak louder. A person can hold another speaker off by holding the other's arm or hand while making a point. Someone may also point to the listener, keep his hands out in space between himself and the listener, or poke a finger into the listener's shoulder. When people want to inten-upt with .their own point, they put their hand out as if to hold the person down. When people are not ready to answer, they may step back, screw their eyes closed, and scratch their heads in the hope of getting more time. An effective manager can determine the flow of the conversation by observing gestures and strategically adjusting the communication.

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