Name: Nur Saienah Bte Mohamad

Membership Number: P1403263

PI Number: Y1411238

Question 1

Nonverbal communication involves communicating with the usage of

symbols other than words. Symbols can be “words, images, gestures and
expressions” used to “represent thoughts, ideas, beliefs and feelings (Dobkin
and Pace, 2006). Some examples include facial expressions, eye contact,
vocalics, chronemics and artifactics. In communication, nonverbal cues can
prove to be more important than words (Siegel, 2011). It is necessary to pay
close attention to the nonverbal strategies we use to become an effective
communicator. Hence, misunderstandings can be avoided and relationships
can improve (Robinson, Segal and Segal, 2014).

The first nonverbal strategy is facial expressions. The members of the

organizing committee might be colleagues I already know or colleagues I
have yet to talk to. Thus, I should maintain a friendly facial expression by
smiling to portray an image that is approachable and open to suggestions
(LaFrance, 2011). This makes it easier to seek for more opinions from the
members. After all, first impression counts and only takes seven seconds to
form (Goman, 2011). If my facial expression shows signs of anger or
annoyance with a frown, those who may not know who I am will regard me
as fierce and unapproachable. They may lack trust in my capabilities. This
can negatively affect the meeting due to difficulty in reaching a consensus
(Pon Staff, 2011). Thus, facial expressions should display positivity in order to
enhance communication with the members.
 The second nonverbal strategy is eye contact, a “powerful
communication tool” (Dobkin and Pace, 2006). The eyes translate emotions
and ideas, and maintaining eye contact is an expression of attention and
interest (Shephard, 2005). Eye contact with committee members can ensure
that I “come across as sincere and trustworthy” (Floyd, 2010). It portrays
confidence and capability in getting the job done (Ellsberg, 2010). This
enhances the communication with the growth of trust. Maintaining eye contact
is also a tool for observing whether the audience is paying attention
(Shephard, 2005). If they start to lose eye contact by constantly looking
away, it might mean they are bored or tired and need a break (Verderber,
Verderber and Sellnow, 2009). While maintaining eye contact is important, we
should remember not to stare as it can cause discomfort (Schulz, 2012).
Understanding how much eye contact is needed is able to create a pleasant
environment for enhanced communication.

The next nonverbal strategy, vocalics, refers to the vocal

characteristics used to provide meaning to our words (Sherman, 2008). Voice
quality is one of the most essential forms of vocalics (Dobkin and Pace,
2006), which includes rate and inflection. Rate refers to the speed of our
speech. Speaking at a fast pace can express eagerness and positively affect
the way others think about my capability (Sherman, 2008). I should not
speak too quickly as it can affect the ability to retain information (Marshall,
n.d.). I should not speak too slowly because people might get bored
(University of Texas at Austin, 2013). This will not enhance communication.
Inflection involves vocally emphasizing certain words to highlight a point
(Dobkin and Pace, 2006). If I emphasize the word “has” in the sentence, “The
family event HAS to be on a Saturday,” then the event is to be held on a
Saturday and not on other days. This reflects the importance of using
inflection to ensure communication enhancement.

Another nonverbal strategy is the use of time, which is known as

chronemics (Floyd, 2010). The way a person makes use of time plays an
important role in evaluating competency (Dobkin and Pace, 2006). For
example, if the meeting was set to last for two hours, then it should not end
later than that. If the meeting was supposed to start at one 1 p.m. then I
should arrive earlier or on time, not later. This will communicate to members
that I am hardworking, trustworthy, sincere and values work and the
people I work with (Rodriques, 2000). If I show up late and delay meetings,
they might think I am unreliable and lazy. Thus, it is important to manage time
wisely in order to enhance communication with the members.

The last nonverbal strategy is the use of objects such as clothes in

nonverbal communications (Dobkin and Pace). Although our physical
characteristics play important roles in being likeable, like being tall and good-
looking, it is difficult to alter what we naturally inherited (Gundersen and
Hopper, 1984). This is where the use of artifacts comes in. Clothes play an
important role in portraying someone as capable, reliable, intelligent and
respectful (Martin and Chaney, 2006), by dressing neatly and appropriately.
In a meeting at work, I should dress modestly and professionally with a
business suit on. Appearing well-dressed will inspire confidence in me to
lead the family event towards success, enhancing communication with
members.

In conclusion, I should be aware of my facial expressions and maintain

eye contact when necessary. Apart from choosing the correct words to say, it
is important to know how to say it. I must keep the meeting within the planned
timing and dress appropriately. These nonverbal strategies are necessary in
enhancing communication in a meeting.

(842 words, including in-text citations)

Question 2

There are three factors that influence whether we present an authentic

self to others. They are, are those with whom we are communicating with, the
communication context and the goal behind the interaction. Authentic
communication involves “presenting the image that is appropriate both for the
situation and the outcome you desire, and is consistent with your self-
concept.” (Dobkin and Pace, 2006).

According to Goffman (1959), we choose sides of us we want to reveal

to others. He coined the term “facework” to describe how we present varying
images to others.

The ones we communicate with play very important roles in

determining which parts of us we choose to display. We refrain from saying
what we really think or feel in order to avoid conflict and reduce tension
(DePaulo, Kashy, Kirkendol, Wyer, and Epstein, 1996). This is especially so
when interacting with colleagues we barely know. During the meeting, I might
discover that the members and I share the same goal, which is to ensure that
everyone has fun during the family day. With this confirmation, I will have
confidence to be more open with my ideas and share more of what I really
think. Based on the Johari window, the self that prefers to refrain from fully
expressing my real thoughts and behavior is within the open quadrant that
others and myself know about. As I become more comfortable with them, the
open quadrant expands. This is beneficial because the increased trust in
members will make working together more effective (Chapman, 2003). As I
reveal my authentic self, the hidden quadrant, which is the self only myself
knows about, becomes smaller (West and Turner, 2009).
 The communication context is divided into the front and back context.
The front context refers to the management of our public image we present to
others while the back context refers to the “private environment” where less
effort is put into our impression management (Goffman, 1959). At work and
during meetings, I act as a professional with a degree of seriousness to
portray myself as a capable employee (Giacalone and Rosenfeld, 2013). I will
dress appropriately for meetings, clad in business attire, sit upright and
speak formally. However, in private (back context), I will be dressed more
casually. When Aat home, I will wearbe dressed in my pajamas while lying on
the couch watching my favorite Korean drama or dressed casually when
going out with friends. I will even drop the formal talk. My personality will be
more relaxed and fun.

The last factor is the goals behind the interaction. In a meeting, the
goal is enhanced communication with members. Thus, I will portray myself
as an approachable and skillful leader who is knowledgeable,
enthusiastic, respectful and resourceful (University of Oregon, 2009). By
behaving like an open-minded chairperson, members will be motivated to
participate, positively contributing to the development of the discussion,
creating better ideas to benefit the company and event (Giardina, 2002).
However, being too concerned about the way we act might eventually go
against our self-concept (Dobkin and Pace, 2006). For example, I cannot
stand the sight of fishes but if the members prefer to visit the SEA Aquarium
at Resorts World Singapore, then I agree in order to be likeable but it goes
against my self-concept. Frankness can be helpful, but it can create distrust
and impede team productivity (Rosh and Offermann, 2013). Hence, we should
moderate our authenticity, keeping in mind our original self-concept.

In conclusion, an authentic self is portrayed based on different

circumstances. Authenticity depends on the people we communicate with, the
context of the communication and depends on what we intend to achieve.
While it is recommended we be authentic and truthful, we should limit
revealing parts of ourselves that will unnecessarily create conflict and
contradict the self-concept.

(624 words, including in-text citations)

Word Count: 1466 words, including in-text citations.

References:

Chapman, A. (2003). Johari Window. Retrieved August 11, 2014, from

https://www.usc.edu/hsc/ebnet/Cc/awareness/Johari%20windowexplain.pdf

Dobkin, B. A. and Pace, R. C. (2006). Communication in a Changing World,

2006 Edition. Retrieved August 5, 2014, from COM101e Principles and
Practice of Communication. Singapore: McGraw-Hill.

DePaulo, B. M., Kashy, D. A., Kirkendol, S. E., Wyer, M. M., and Epstein, J.
A. (1996). Lying in everyday life. Journal of Personality and Social
Psychology, 70, 979- 995. Retrieved August 10, 2014, from
http://smg.media.mit.edu/library/DePauloEtAl.LyingEverydayLife.pdf

Floyd, K. (2010). Communication Matters. Retrieved August 5, 2014, from

COM101e Principles and Practice of Communication. Singapore: McGraw-
Hill.

Ellsberg, M. (2010). The Power of Eye Contact: Your Secret for Success in
Business, Love, and Life. William Morrow Paperbacks. Retrieved August 6,
2014, from http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061782211/ref=as_li_ss_tl?
ie=UTF8&tag=stucosuccess-
20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0061782211

Giacalone, R. A. and Rosenfeld, P. (2013). Impression Management in the

Organization. Psychology Press. Retrieved August 11, 2014, from
http://books.google.com.sg/books?
id=VlC7xtYHv1kC&pg=PA12&lpg=PA12&dq=impression+management+dress
ed+well&source=bl&ots=ki2QZFeu_m&sig=YA_hktNvCI-
NDKsswL3KRCtiO7E&hl=en&sa=X&ei=PpPoU_3-
AoLc8AWF64DgAw&ved=0CFcQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=impression
%20management%20dressed%20well&f=false

Giardina, R. (2002). Your Authentic Self: Be Your Authentic Self at Work.

Simon and Schuster. Retrieved August 11, 2014, from
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QAw&ved=0CFIQ6AEwBjgK#v=onepage&q=authentic%20self%20in
%20communication&f=false

Goman, C. K. (2011). Seven Seconds to Make a First Impression. Retrieved

August 5, 2014, from
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make-a-first-impression/

Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Retrieved

August 10, 2014, from
http://www.public.iastate.edu/~carlos/607/readings/goffman.pdf

Gundersen, D. F. and Hopper, R. (1984). Communication and Law

Enforcement. University Press of America. Retrieved August 10, 2014, from
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id=U86OgkP1dooC&pg=PA56&lpg=PA56&dq=non+verbal+communication+d
ress+and+appearance&source=bl&ots=emqeZL4fm2&sig=5TDOQZbcaA1sV
hGL8sYgs6gF3jY&hl=en&sa=X&ei=b23nU8D6Mc7d8AX0noKICw&ved=0CG
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%20and%20appearance&f=false

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k&hl=en&sa=X&ei=b23nU8D6Mc7d8AX0noKICw&ved=0CCoQ6AEwAjgK#v=
onepage&q=non%20verbal%20communication%20dress%20and
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LaFrance, M. (2011). Why Smile: The Science Behind Facial Expressions. W.

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Marshall, M. (n.d.). Delivery. Effective Presentations in Engineering and

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Martin, J. S. and Chaney, L. H. (2006). Global Business Ettiquette: A Guide to

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ress+and+appearance&source=bl&ots=Mtj2_uaqp6&sig=EWnWxZfAHJ-
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U#v=onepage&q=non%20verbal%20communication%20dress%20and
%20appearance&f=false

Items Marks Comments

Q1
Identification of five (5) nonverbal 10/10 Good job.
strategies. (2 marks for each.)

Application of five (5) nonverbal 4038/50 Presentation is well-

strategies, with examples. (10 organised. You have
marks for each.) understood the
concepts with good
Breakdown: attempts to explain the
Explain key terms: 2 marks each X key concepts. You have
5 = 10 marks also done well in
applying the concepts
Application of key terms: 8 marks with relevant examples
each X 5 = 40 marks and cogent analysis
based on the scenario.
To do better, I suggest
you provide a more in-
depth discussion. Well
done with secondary
research.

Q2
Identification of three (3) factors. 33/3
(1 mark for each.)
Elaborate with examples. (9 marks 2317/27
for each.)
Breakdown:
Explain key terms: 2 marks each X
3 = 6 marks
Application of key terms: 7 marks
each X 3 = 21 marks
Logical flow,
presentation/organization
(including introduction &
conclusion), proper referencing,
language and compliance with all
the TMA requirements.
Cogent analysis.
Good job in answering
this question. You have
managed to with
explanation/examples
but some parts are less
clear. explain the
concepts well. You’ve
shown sound and
thorough application of
the concept for two of
the three points. Good
job with secondary
research.
104/10 Essay is well presented
with logical flow. Good
effort with introduction
and conclusion. Be
careful with spelling and
sentence structure.
You’ve done well
 adhering to TMA
requirements.
TOTAL 6586 Well done. Keep up the
effort!

Pon Staff (2011). How Facial Expressions Affect Trust.Retrieved August 5,

2014, from http://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/negotiation-skills-daily/how-
facial-expressions-affect-trust/

Robinson, L., Segal, J. and Segal, R. (2014). Effective Communication.

Retrieved August 5, 2014, from
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/effective_communication_skills.htm

Rodriques, M. V. (2000). Perspectives of Communication and Communicative

Competence. Concept Publishing Company. Retrieved August 10, 2014, from
http://books.google.com.sg/books?id=SAwQn7--
mcIC&pg=PA95&lpg=PA95&dq=chronemics+competence&source=bl&ots=dlv
F_43nEI&sig=i6li6ymyRnNZuj_5ZBsgysCj8nE&hl=en&sa=X&ei=e1fnU525K4
a48gXJroDICA&ved=0CBsQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=chronemics
%20competence&f=false

Rosh, L. and Offermann, L. (2013). Be Yourself, but Carefully. Retrieved

August 11, 2014, from http://hbr.org/2013/10/be-yourself-but-carefully/ar/1

Schulz, J. (2012). Eye contact: An introduction to its role in communication.

Retrieved August 6, 2014, from
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/eye_contact_an_introduction_to_its_role_in_co
mmunication
Shephard, K. (2005). Presenting at Conferences, Seminars and Meetings.
SAGE. Retrieved August 5, 2014, from http://books.google.com.sg/books?
id=3PbzZByOFH0C&pg=PA23&lpg=PA23&dq=the+importance+of+eye+conta
ct+in+meetings&source=bl&ots=3p3fkkv8Y0&sig=W5ffJVOj6MDpnSRm6Si39
9JYCGc&hl=en&sa=X&ei=Fg7hU6HwL46-
uAT8ooGQDA&ved=0CGQQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=the%20importance
%20of%20eye%20contact%20in%20meetings&f=false

Sherman, R. (2008). The Power of Voice! Using Vocalics to Influence and

Persuade. Retrieved August 10, 2014, from
http://astd2008.astd.org/PDF/Speaker%20Handouts/ice08%20handout
%20SU312.pdf

Siegel, M. (2011). Power Communication for Success. AudioInk. Retrieved

August 5, 2014, from http://books.google.com.sg/books?
id=NOAMvvJcXIwC&pg=PT46&lpg=PT46&dq=the+reason+we+say+that+non
verbal+communication+is+more+believable+than+verbal+communication+is+
that&source=bl&ots=hIzzQTkXjZ&sig=q34dK3KzLBOdRWQigcKFh877bas&hl
=en&sa=X&ei=tXvgU5ueD5KIuATI0IHoCg&ved=0CF8Q6AEwCA#v=onepage
&q=the%20reason%20we%20say%20that%20nonverbal%20communication
%20is%20more%20believable%20than%20verbal%20communication%20is
%20that&f=false

University of Oregon (2009). Lerdership Characteristics. Retrieved August 11,

2014, from
http://leadership.uoregon.edu/resources/exercises_tips/skills/leadership_char
acteristics
University of Texas at Austin (2013). Speaking to an Audience. Retrieved
August 10, 2014, from
http://www.lib.utexas.edu/services/instruction/tips/ic/ic_speak.html

Verderber, R. F., Verderber, K. S. and Sellnow, D. D. (2009). COMM.

Cengage Learning. Retrieved August 6, 2014, from
http://books.google.com.sg/books?
id=p5_Tiq2OqbAC&pg=PT218&lpg=PT218&dq=importance+of+maintaining+
eye+contact+when+others+are+talking&source=bl&ots=omF2wR-
xNO&sig=CCPYB-
t9rGkeVB54VF5yf5kgSO0&hl=en&sa=X&ei=PFjiU9SgNMOKuASEzYDoBQ&
ved=0CDMQ6AEwAzgU#v=onepage&q=importance%20of%20maintaining
%20eye%20contact%20when%20others%20are%20talking&f=false

West, R. and Turner, L. (2009). Johari Window. Understanding Interpersonal

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id=nb4NEKE6k_cC&pg=PA274&lpg=PA274&dq=west+and+turner+johari+win
dow&source=bl&ots=c_vpzlf7XC&sig=Ea1KGMX9nilbfdJ4ju3Nelp92R0&hl=e
n&sa=X&ei=FT_oU5DkJIuD8gWPgYH4DQ&ved=0CBsQ6AEwAA#v=onepag
e&q=west%20and%20turner%20johari%20window&f=false