Non-verbal communication involves more than just body language and nodding of the head. In fact there are a number of pertinent facets to non-verbal communication; this paper delves into those issues and provides context. While giving a presentation to associates at work, or classmates, the following non-verbal behaviors are observed among those in the audience.

Provide interpretations when one person is writing the entire time the presentation is going on -- how would this influence the speaker's evaluation of audience feedback or change: According to Stuart, et al., non-verbal language is "more difficult to interpret" but "more powerful than speech." However it isn't difficult at all to interpret the non-verbal cue from the student who is writing the entire time of the presentation. Interpretation #1: It could be that the student is taking notes, however that seems unlikely. The speaker needs to take this indifference to heart and do something about it. Interpretation #2: It could also be that he is cramming for a mid-term test later that day. A pause can also serve to interrupt the male who is busy writing something while the presentation is going on. "Pausing gives listeners the time to absorb what the speaker is saying" (Stuart, et al., 2007); and in the case of the busy writer, whose non-verbal message is that either I don't care what you're saying or I'm way too busy to pay attention, a pause and a focus with eyes directing at the writer could have a positive impact. Interpretation #3: It is possible that what is being said lacks relevance, or is being presented in a dry, flat style of speaking. Whatever the reason, the speaker needs to deal with this rudeness and lack of attention. Each of these three possible interpretations lead...

On page 32 of Chapter 2 (Communication in Daily Life), the suggestion is made -- a positive one indeed -- to use the pause to put emphasis in what is being said.
Why waste time and energy (after having spend a good amount of time preparing the presentation) speaking in front of a group if only some of the group will get anything out of it? In the peer-reviewed Icfai University Journal of Social Skills, the author points out that moving around the room, up and down all the aisles, which is a non-verbal communication strategy, is far better than standing in one spot. Also, good eye contact, gestures, and key facial expressions can offset students' tendency to engage in proxemics ("gaze aversion," swinging of legs, or tapping fingers on the desk) (Subapriya, 2009).

TWO: a student / associate is smiling albeit the subject is serious. Interpretation #1: The student just got a text from a boyfriend asking for a date tonight. Prior to the presentation the speaker should ask that all digital devices be turned off. Interpretation #2: The student needs the speaker to call on her, politely walking over to that person because her mind is far away from the topic. Perhaps using voice modulation could help the smiling student come to reality. Clearly, if the subject is grim, or at least serious, a smile is a non-verbal cue that his student isn't getting it. Interpretation #3: The presentation is going on too long and students are restless, and the smile reflects that she (the smiling one)…