Effective Communication & Cultural Diversity
I consider myself to be an extremely genuine person. I feel everyone deserves my respect, support and attention if they so desire it. I am no better than anyone else and value each and every opportunity I have to communicate with someone new; it gives me the opportunity to see life through their eyes. I have learned so much from others and truly feel blessed with each new relationship I form.
As far as communicating differently with diverse groups of people, of course this is the case. Although I am genuine and remain true to myself, there are many facets to my own character. I consider myself extremely perceptive and aware of my surroundings, and I make it a point to analyze the character of others to the best of my ability while communicating with them. I am different with my close friends than I am with my employees, but I am still more open and relaxed with them than I am with the parents I deal with on a daily basis. Some parents have been part of our school for a few years and they have become closer to me than when they were new, I am able to be a bit more laid back while communicating with them. They know me and understand my sense of humor.
When I meet a new family I immediately greet them with a warm smile and welcome them to the school. This is always the same with everyone that comes through the door. It is their body language and reaction to my actions that guides my next move. Sometimes I am greeted with a warm smile and handshake. This indicates I can approach the family, bend down on my knee and greet the child. If I am greeted with a quick hello and some immediate questions, I know to keep it a bit more professional. Sometimes I get families who speak little English. With them I try to speak slowly and use many hand gestures to aid in my communication. I may even walk them into a classroom where I have a Spanish speaking employee (if their language is Spanish) and they can begin speaking to them. I try not to ask the employee unless they request it. I don't want them to feel singled out because of their language. Usually, the employee gathers they are Spanish speaking and begins talking, and this makes them more comfortable.
I feel communication is the single most important aspect of life. I will continue to strive to become the most effective communicator I can be.
Hi Sarah, Diversity is an increasing part of our community and workplace. Learning to understand different cultures besides our own can help prevent miscommunication. I enjoyed reading your blog!!
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteI think speaking slowly and using many hand gestures when communicating with people who do not understand English very well is a good idea. Assimilations and eliminations of sounds and words make it hard for non-native English speakers to understand even simple sentences. It took so long for me to understand cashiers everywhere say “Did you find everything, OK?” because they don’t enunciate.
Aya
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteI agree that being genunine in our interactions is the key to effective communication on all levels. I find too that always keeping in mind the individualized nature of each encounter is important. Thank you for sharing .
Judi
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteI love the pictures that you use. When communicating with others you have to be mindful of both verabal and non verabal communication. I also agree that you have to be genunie when interacting with others. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Sarah,
ReplyDeleteI also love the picture that you used. I believe that we share many of the same views because I am not a person to think that I am better than the next personal. I believe that all people should be respected regardless of their culture. I also agree that communictaion is one of the most important aspects of life. Great post.
Hi Sarah,
ReplyDeleteYes- communication is critical in all aspects of life (social, family, academic, and professional). You provided great examples of ways you use visual, verbal, and nonverbal cues as communicate with your families. Each family has different needs and your ability to "read" their needs and support them in any way you can is admirable. It also serves as an example of effective communication strategies for others in the field. Thank you for a great post!