When I communicate with friends my verbal and body language is more casual. The verbal cues can be common or ones that only we understand because we have been friends for some time. I think that listening is important with friends because sometimes we feel that we know them well that we may miss something because we assume they are communicating as they always do. We still have to be aware of how they are communicating so that we can understand what they are trying to say and communicate with them in a respectful way.
Three Strategies that would help me communicate more effectively:
1. The first strategy would be to remember when talking to people from different groups and cultures that I need to take into consideration the differences we do have. I need to listen to their perspective and be open to the fact that my way does not have to be the only way. Listening and asking questions is very important.
2. The second strategy would be to remember the "Platinum Rule" of treating others how they would like to be treated by trying to understand their situation and the values and beliefs that come through in communication. This will help me to more empathetic to their feelings and needs.
3. The third strategy would be to be more aware of a persons body language or non-verbal communication because it can portray a different meaning than what is being said. People of a different culture may use different body language that could have a different meaning than I know so it is good be aware of the cultures of the people that I communicate with and how body language is used in conversation.
Hi Julie,
ReplyDeleteWe shared the same view on our communication techniques. It is important to have different techniques when communicating with different groups of people. I like the fact that you have also thought that the platinum rule is good to learn and imbibe. I believe if we all use this rule, misunderstanding and lack of respect will be dealt with.
Julie,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your statements about listening to friends. Some friendships grow apart because of a failure to grow/develop in communication skills. I like your strategies about effective communication, especially the 2nd one. Learning to be empathic is a process but it is a necessary process to cultivate relationships.
Julie,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this post. The cartoon was an excellent addition. I agree that communication differences can cause barriers. Therefore, it is important to monitor body language. I find that body language is similar in many cultures.
Thanks!!! You gave me another view on how to communicate and deal with others with higher education. I communicate with everyone different because everyone is on different levels.
ReplyDeleteJulie,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the cartoon.
After reading your first paragraph, you painted a picture of the way my husband communicates. With people he do not know, he is very formal. If he is interested in the topic that is being discussed, he has to speak and let others know that he is educated and universal. I have to agree that he is. He loves all types of music and almost all sports. He searches the web daily for information to talk about.
When he is with his peers, he is able to adapt to his environment. He should be a role model for demonstrating the platinum rule.
I did not mean to speak so much of my husband but you two have the same communication style.
Your techniques will make you an even better communicator. By the time we are finished with this class we will be new people (when it comes to communication).
Julie,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your insight of the three strategies that will help us all. This week I must say the Platinum Rule VS. the Golden Rule provide me a clearer picture of how we should not only communicate but treat others.