Communication is
the process by which individuals use symbols, signs, and behaviors to exchange
information (O'Hair & Wiemann (2009). The
most interactive relationship I have developed all my life is with my family,
friends and my colleagues. In a setting with colleagues or professionals I use
eye contact, proper hand shake and proper English. We communicate differently
with people from different cultures and settings. When we educate ourselves to
know more about people’s culture and their unique nature we would appreciate
them for who they are.
I find myself
communicating differently with people from different cultures. Since I took the
culture and diversity course I have been cautious of my communication with
people from different cultures.
I communicate
differently with people from different settings but the strategies I use in
communicating better is by listening to others, showing respect to others so
that when a child grows up seeing people helping others, they too become
helpers” (Gonzalez-Mena 2010). And finally we
need to be empathic with others by improving the lives of people when creating
problem solving environment.
Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating and
working with diverse families. Upper
Saddle River , NJ
Chika,
ReplyDeleteI love the way you describe your relationships with you family, friends, and colleagues as "most interactive." What a great way to express that, and so true. We become more interactive as we become more comfortable and that comes out of the frequency of necessary communication. I also am intrigued by your comment about becoming more cautious about your communication with people who are different than you. I believe I have done the same thing, not wanting to risk offense or saying something that is stereotypical, etc. Listening really is the best choice in situations like this in order to find out more about people! Listening, showing respect and showing empathy are great communication goals in your everyday interactions.
Cindy
I think you made a very valid point we communicate different in settings with different people. I often times pick at my sister because when she answer the phone or even orders food from the drive-thru her voice changes drastically. In taking the same course it is essential to be cautious when communicating with different cultures because we do not want to offend anyone by mistake. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHeather
Chika,
ReplyDeleteI believe that you have hit it right on the nose. Respect is the key to communicating with individuals. I find our own beliefs and feelings, have gotten some of us in trouble in the past with misunderstandings or miscommunications. I have taken on a conversation within myself, telling myself to think before you comment, and really listen to what this person is saying to you, or what are they trying to say to you. Listening, is the other key to communication for everything we do in our professional and personal life.
I enjoyed reading your blog, and your take of a great communicator.
Chicka, I really enjoyed your post. I agree that listening is the key building effective communication skills, What a great thought of fitting in beliefs and personal feelings can create problematic miscommunication and misunderstandings. I enjoyed your blog.
ReplyDelete