The following are some examples of nonverbal feedback:
- Smiling: This may be combined with nodding your head to show affirmation.
- Eye contact: This is fine as long as it does not come across as intimidating, especially for shy people.
- Posture: This involves leaning forward, a slight slanting of your head, or resting your head on your hands.
- Mirroring: This is an automatic reflex that involves copying or mimicking the facial expressions used by a speaker in a natural way.
- Avoiding distractions: Distraction occurs when a person is not actively listening and can involve fidgeting and looking at a clock, watch, or phone. Active listeners remain attentive and focused on the speaker.
The following are some examples of verbal feedback:
- Positive reinforcement: This involves saying words such as yes, very good, or indeed.
- Remembering: This involves recalling details, ideas, and concepts stated in a conversation. For example, you could say, “I remember you saying that,” or “I remember when you said...”
- Questioning: This involves asking relevant questions to reinforce that you are interested.
- Clarifying: This involves asking questions to make sure that you have received the correct message.
- Paraphrasing: This involves repeating the speaker's ideas in your own words.
- Summarizing: This involves repeating the main points of what was shared.
