Since beginning this program and especially this course, I
have found that I do communicate differently with people from different groups
and cultures. I have reflected on the
person I was and decided I wanted to change. I try not to stereotype or judge a
person; rather I begin a conversation with that person and try to learn more
about them. I have implemented some of
the skills we learned on effective communication and have made more of an
effort to watch my facial expressions, body language, and tone when speaking.
Lastly, I have begun to implement the Platinum Rule.
One exciting thing I started doing at school was I chose a
staff member who I did not know much about. She is new to the school this year
and I figured that I could maybe make our school a little more welcoming. So
what I decided to do was for 10 days straight, 2 minutes a day, I make an
effort to have a conversation with her about anything of her choice that does
not involve something about work. That way I can learn more about her as a
person. I mean I will discuss work but
that does not count towards my 2 minutes of learning something new about her.
Thanks for sharing! I also said that I find myself communicating differently with different groups and cultures. I always thought I treated everyone the same, but this course had made me realize that I do not. I think that it is a good thing to try and learn about a person before passing judgment. I also like what you are doing to learn more about the new staff member. When the 10 days are over, what are you going to do next? Move on to another staff member?
ReplyDeleteVictoria,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great strategy. I would love to know the outcome of it and if you would suggest anyone else to use it? I also would like to know if she is comfortable communicating each day about herself. I also have been more aware of my communication skills since enrolling in this course. The learning resources and reading my colleagues experiences with communication have been very insightful and helpful.
Latasha
Victoria,
ReplyDeleteThree strategies that will help me to communicate more effectively with all groups are to be aware of my non-verbal cues, making sure I maintain an open relationship with all groups, and to change my listening habits to become a more active listener. Your two minute a day strategy is a brilliant idea. All the best in this gesture.
Victoria,
ReplyDeleteI like the idea you chose to make your new co-worker feel more welcomed. What a great idea! I think facial expressions and tone are key in communicating effectively with others too. Personally, I have been working on some of my facial expressions. I make faces often but they are not always accurate of my thoughts. I hope to be more conscious of them so I do not offend anyone.