Nonverbal Communication: Universal Sign for I Goofed

In an effort to promote tranquility on the highways and reduce road rage, motorists submitted the following suggestions. They were sent to a newspaper columnist who asked for a universal nonverbal signal admitting that a driver had "goofed."

Your Task. In small groups consider the pros and cons of each of the following gestures intended as an apology when a driver makes a mis- take. Why would some fail?

a. Lower your head slightly and bonk yourself on the forehead with the side of your closed fist. The message is clear: I'm stupid.
I shouldn't have done that.

b. Make a temple with your hands, as if you were praying.

c. Move the index finger of your right hand back and forth across your neck-as if you were cutting your throat.

d. Flash the well-known peace sign. Hold up the index and middle fingers of one hand, making a V, as in victory.

e. Place the flat of your hands against your cheeks, as children do when they have made a mistake.

f. Clasp your hand over your mouth, raise your brows, and shrug your shoulders.

implementation, acceptance, and effects of casual-dress programs, select one of the following activities, all of which involve some form of interviewing.

Your Task

a. In teams, gather information from human resources directors to determine which companies allow business casual dress, how often, and under what specific conditions. The information may be collected by personal interviews, by e-mail, or by telephone.

b. In teams, conduct inquiring-reporter interviews. Ask individuals in the community how they react to casual dress in the workplace. Develop a set of standard interview questions.

c. In teams, visit local businesses on both business casual days and on traditional business dress days. Compare and contrast the effects of business dress standards on such factors as the projected image of the company, the nature of the interactions with customers and with fellow employees, the morale of employees, and the productivity of employees. What generalizations can you draw from your findings?