Rolling your eyes
Negative nonverbal back-channel cue
Dismissive language: “Whatever” or “You’re crazy.”
Negative verbal back-channel cue
Placing your hand on the speaker’s arm or shoulder to convey concern or warmth
Positive nonverbal back-channel cue
Showing interest with animated facial expressions
Positive nonverbal back-channel cue
Giving someone a look of disgust or annoyance
Negative nonverbal back-channel cue
Questions or invitations for the speaker to elaborate or continue talking: “Go on.” “What happened next?"
Positive verbal back-channel cue
Listening without interrupting
Positive nonverbal back-channel cue
Hanging up on someone in the middle of a phone conversation
Negative nonverbal back-channel cue
Putting someone's ideas down: “That’s totally wrong.” “You're ridiculous.”
Negative verbal back-channel cue
Threatening not to listen anymore: “I'm done listening. “ “This conversation is over!"
Negative verbal back-channel cue
Reactions of surprise or excitement: “Wait a minute!” “No way!” “Yikes!”
Positive verbal back-channel cue
Constantly interrupting
Negative verbal back-channel cue
Checking your cell phone while someone is talking
Negative nonverbal back-channel cue
Leaning slightly toward the speaker
Positive nonverbal back-channel cue
Restatements of what you just heard or clarifying emotions: “So, you’re feeling frustrated.”
Positive verbal back-channel cue
Sighing as if you’re exasperated or put off
Negative nonverbal back-channel cue
Talking over someone who is speaking
Negative verbal back-channel cue
Expressions of understanding: “I see.” “Yes!” “Exactly.” “That’s interesting.”
Positive verbal back-channel cue