On
a daily basis we speak multiple languages with the different people we interact
with. Personally, I communicate differently with my family and friends than
with my colleagues at work. I use a more professional language at work and at
home I use a more informal language and style. I believe it all boils down to
our comfort levels. When I am around people of a different culture I notice
that I use more formal language and style until I am comfortable. Along with
speaking a different language with different people in my life, I tend to wear
a different mask as well. My family may see one side of me, while my coworkers
and my students see another side. Honestly, sometimes it can get so tiresome
and overwhelming. But everyone has different expectations. Such is life.
Three strategies I can use to help
me communicate more effectively with others from different groups are:
- Placing myself in their shoes. Everyone has a different
perspective. To be an effective communicator, I should have an
understanding of the other person and how they view life in general.
- In situations where I am not so comfortable, I can
tend to be vague. I need to improve on getting to the point and being
clear about my expectations and my goals of the conversation. Vagueness leads
to uncertainty and confusion. Two things that I definitely want to steer
clear of.
- Lastly, I need to ask my effective questions. I
am known for being very inquisitive but I do not always seem to ask the
right question to get the answer I am looking for. I need to improve on my
questioning skills.
Ryan,
ReplyDeleteThere is certainly a challenge at times with fulfilling communication expectations of others. My biggest challenge sometimes is speaking to my students who are 3 and 4. I get caught up in using language that may be well more than advance for them academically. I try my best to speak in their language but have to quickly turn it off when an administrator or other professional enters the classroom.
This week the Platinum Rule was very beneficial when relating it to my situation. As your first strategy says we must place ourselves in the shoes of others.
I agree it boils down to comfort level. Through these assessment I found that I am uncomfortable when communication with others. I think it is because I am scared that I might say something or something that might offend them. I like that you say try placing yourself in their shoes kind of reminds me of the Platnium Rules.
ReplyDelete