While face masks are vital in keeping us all safe, one of the difficulties of wearing them is that they make person-to-person communication a bit more difficult. We can’t be as expressive with our faces, we can’t show off our smiles, and many of us can rely on lip-reading or understanding cues, both verbal and nonverbal, that can be obscured by masks.

There are, however, ways that we can all combat it and be our expressive selves even while wearing our masks and staying safe. 

One great way to do this is to be more expressive with our voices. With facial expressions covered up, make sure people can understand what you mean by voice cadence or changes in your cadence alone. Since we can’t see whether you’re smiling or frowning or confused, the changes in voice can go a long way in making sure that we know exactly how you’re feeling.

Another key is things like active listening practices. Things like positive affirmations that you are listening and understanding what someone is saying. While listening, try to make a conscious effort to nod or say something like, “Absolutely” or “I get it” so your conversation partner knows you’re engaged in the conversation.

Another tool is other methods of body language communication. Try your best to practice smiling with your eyes, or even just give a thumbs-up. Positive listening does not just have to be interjecting to make sure your subject is aware of what you’re saying, but it can also be showing them through nonverbal communication. It just means that instead of showing it with your face, you may need to assume better, more positive, posture, or perhaps more vigorous nodding.

Masks are keeping us all safe and wearing them while interacting with others is vital so that we can even see one another in-person. If you’re shopping for new face masks, don’t forget about our clear mask as well as our other great face mask options, all of which can be customized!  #staysafe