Why are these important? As you progress in the language and interact in different conversational events, noting these points can help you emphasize your point in a cultural way, or help you avoid actions that can give a negative connotation to the local people. Learn to be sensitive to these signals and begin to use them when you enter a conversation

Notice what goes on as two people interact in a conversation. Many verbal and nonverbal signals will be given in addition to the actual content of the conversation.

Note the hesitation pauses (similar to English “uh, um, er”, etc.) and where they occur (before the speaker opens the conversation or before be makes a special point? while the speaker wracks his brain for the “right” word? used by the listener to let the speaker know he’s still listening?).

Note eye contact between speaker and listener. Does the speaker look the listener straight in the eye? When, and during what kind of interaction (in ordinary conversation, or when giving a command, explaining something, or issuing discipline)?

Do they glance away periodically? When? How does the listener indicate that he is paying attention? Where is his gaze?

How far apart do people sit or stand? Do these positions shift at points in the conversation, as perhaps when a change in turns to speak occurs? What does the distance between speaker and listener indicate about the intensity of the conversation? Is this distance different if speaking to a child?

How are head, eyebrow, lip, hand, arm, or leg movements used in the interaction, and what do these signal? Do any of these indicate boredom, interest, disagreement, embarrassment, or any other reaction?

What does voice volume indicate? Does a raised voice always indicate anger?

Notice how people express their emotions. When do people smile, frown, blush, cry, look blank, appear unmoved, giggle, etc.? There will likely be some significant differences between the way they express their emotions and the way you express yours. For instance, how do the local people express anger, grief, bewilderment, embarrassment, displeasure, happiness, love, etc.? Spitting, for example, in some cultures is an indication of anger or disgust. Learn to express your emotions in culturally understandable and acceptable ways.