As I begin to reflect on how I communicate with people overall, I have come to realize that I do communicate with different people in different ways. When I communicate with my colleagues, I try to be as respectful as I can because we are "dwelling" in an educational environment, where we can learn not only from our instructors, but from each other as well. Versus when I communication with people in my neighborhood, I have to give a "tough yet soft" image when communicating with them, but I am still respectful. I'm nice to people but also let them know that I can protect myself in case they want to try some "slick stuff". In this case, I would say that my non-verbal cues "speak" louder than my verbal cues.
With this being said, I believe I have come up with three strategies that I could use to help me communicate more effectively my colleagues and those in my neighborhood. Although I communicate with them differently, I believe these three strategies will work across the board.
NUMBER ONE: "Follow the Platinum Rule"; 'Do unto other as you would want them to do unto you'. Simple yet complicated. We as humans can be selfish when we speak to others, not considering what we are saying to the others or what they want to say to us. But we want everyone to listen to us. It doesn't work that way. We must respect one another in order to receive respect from one another...
#2: "Be careful of what my non-verbal cues maybe given off or 'saying'": Sometimes, the words that come out of our mouths are "silenced" by our non-verbal cues. Or sometimes we may say (or write) something that has a "subliminal" message attached to it that can be taken out of context. Along with that, we may not say one word but our body language/facial expressions have the potential to speak volumes.
3) Constantly be aware of "cultural myopia": a form of nearsightedness grounded in the belief that one's own culture is appropriate and relevant in all situations and to all people" (O'H air & Wiemann, p. 45, 2012). Everyone is different, period. Regardless of how many similarities we may have, we are still individuals. So we have to open-minded when communicating with each other. Everyone has their own unique way of thinking and expressing themselves. As along as we can respect each other while these actions take place, we should be ok! I truly believe that....
O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2012). Real communication: An introduction. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.
Hi Brandee!
ReplyDeleteI too stated in my blog post that I communicate differently with individuals dependant upon their cultural diversity. I used the example of the differences in communication with individuals older than myself versus individuals of same age or younger than myself. It’s interesting that you stated you communicate differently with those in you professional life such as school colleagues or instructors versus individuals in you personal life such as residents within your neighborhood. Do you feel the differences by which we communication with individuals is learned behavior or behavior acquired through increased knowledge of cultural diversity?
Brandee,
ReplyDeleteIn order to connect with people, we have to change the way we communicate with varying people. The ability to be flexible in our communication and behavior is essential. I was once coaching a teacher in the classroom who needed to modify some of her behaviors. She said, "I'm not going to change who I am or how I act because you tell me to!" She missed the point! We all must make adjustments in our communication styles depending on who we're around. It makes us a more well rounded person!
Brandee,
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I have to tell you that I LOVED your title for your blog entry this week. I smiled as soon as I read it. Your three strategies for effective communication are great. It is very important to remember to communicate with others as you would want them to communicate with you. I know I wouldn’t’ want to talk with a friend who doesn’t even look up at me because she is too busy texting someone else.
Arica
Brandee,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post and I liked your emphasis on the importance of being aware of non-verbal cues. I also really enjoyed your strategies for effective communication. I think you are right, as long as we put the focus on respecting one another then there is no way to fail! Thanks for sharing this useful important information!