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Non-verbal communication can be an invaluable source of information.  Being able to read so-called 'body language' is a useful skill for a Research Team Leader.  It can help in understanding what is really being said or in identifying underlying issues in the team.

The Research Team Leader should also be aware of their own body language as this can have profound positive or negative influences on other members of the team, eg showing signs of active listening will encourage someone to speak, whilst a bored facial expression will send the message to the speaker that he/she is not being heard.

Some examples are:

• Nodding your head and leaning forward shows attention, encouragement and interest.
• A bouncing leg will indicate impatience or lack of interest, a desire to be moving on to something else.
• A raised eyebrow, rolling the eyes or a frown will indicate disbelief, questioning or even disapproval.
• Looking away will be interpreted as a sign that the listener is not listening, is not interested and would probably rather be somewhere else.

Non-verbal communication can also be used to emphasise the message being conveyed. Some examples are:

• Maintaining a stern facial expression when explaining to someone the seriousness of a mistake they have made
• Smiling when congratulating someone for a job well done
• If the non-verbal and verbal communications do not match there will be confusion about the message being conveyed.