How do you use verbal and nonverbal communication to build trust?

1 Be honest and transparent

One of the most important ways to build trust is to be honest and transparent in your verbal communication. This means expressing your thoughts, feelings, and opinions clearly and respectfully, without hiding or exaggerating anything. It also means admitting your mistakes, apologizing when necessary, and keeping your promises. Honesty and transparency can show that you value the truth and that you respect the other person enough to share it with them.

2 Use active listening

Another way to build trust is to use active listening in your verbal communication. Active listening is a skill that involves paying attention, showing interest, and giving feedback to the speaker. Active listening can help you understand the other person's perspective, empathize with their emotions, and acknowledge their concerns. Active listening can also show that you care about the other person and that you are willing to learn from them.

3 Match your words and actions

A third way to build trust is to match your words and actions in your nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication includes your body language, facial expressions, eye contact, tone of voice, and gestures. Nonverbal communication can convey your attitude, confidence, and sincerity, as well as reinforce or contradict your verbal communication. Matching your words and actions can show that you are consistent and reliable, and that you mean what you say.

4 Show respect and appreciation

A fourth way to build trust is to show respect and appreciation in your nonverbal communication. Respect and appreciation can be expressed through your posture, distance, touch, and smile. Respect and appreciation can show that you value the other person as a human being, that you recognize their contributions, and that you enjoy their company. Respect and appreciation can also create a positive and comfortable atmosphere for communication.

5 Adapt to the context and the audience

A fifth way to build trust is to adapt to the context and the audience in your verbal and nonverbal communication. Context and audience refer to the situation, purpose, and expectations of the communication. Adapting to the context and the audience can help you choose the appropriate language, tone, style, and behavior for the communication. Adapting to the context and the audience can also show that you are aware of and sensitive to the cultural, social, and personal differences of the other person.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

A sixth way to build trust is to seek feedback and improvement in your verbal and nonverbal communication. Feedback and improvement can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, learn from your mistakes, and grow as a communicator. Seeking feedback and improvement can also show that you are humble, open-minded, and committed to enhancing your communication skills and relationships.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?