Communication Corner
Tips for Supplementing Communication While Wearing a Face Mask
Covering the majority of the face can make it difficult to convey emotion and communicate with others. It is important to be conscious of the communication that is lost while wearing a face mask. Below are some tips to supplement communication. Try different tips based on the needs of the person you are interacting with.
Be patient
Get the other person’s attention before speaking
Make eye contact, if possible
Use context clues within the situation
Take off sunglasses and hats to allow the other person better access to your face
Ensure adequate lighting
Be aware of your environment – Move away from noises and distractions, if possible
Speak louder – Masks tend to muffle sound
Use short, simple sentences
Speak face-to-face and at eye level
Clarify if you are unsure what the other person is saying
Use gestures or real-life objects – Wave, point, give thumbs-up, and so on to reinforce what you’re saying
Use your body language to accentuate your emotions – Such as head tilts, head nods, and your posture
Be aware of and use your eye brows to emphasize communication
Write it down if you need to – Thicker dark letters on white paper are more easily seen from 6 feet away
Use some sign language that is commonly known such as thank you, please, and sorry
Use a clear face mask!
Posted 9/21/2020 2:34 PM