Becoming a Strong Communicator

In my communications class I took an assessment for Communication Anxiety Inventory, Verbal Aggressiveness and Listening Styles. I found that I scored moderate in all three. I had my coworker evaluate me and with her my score was higher. She feels that I am a strong communicator and that I can influence the audience. I do not see this in myself. I thought my listening skills were stronger than what I scored and it is something I truly feel is important factor in communication. The insight I learned about myself is that I am concerned about what I say to others so that I will not offend anyone. I also learned my listening skills need to improve. Listening and communicating are so important when, I as a professional, speak to the parents. Listening to their concern and needs are important gaining their trust and helping the situation. Listening one of the main ingredients to building strong relationships with the families; therefore I have to build my skills in order to be effective.

Communication and Culture

Diversity is an issue we cannot escape. In every aspect of life we see diversity. In my studies I have learned that diversity is not just race but it is language, traditions, norms, foods and customs. Yes I defiantly communicate differently with different groups and cultures. My line of work I help children with developmental delays and I conduct house visits. My children are not older than 3. I speak to them on their level and use sign language. I teach them how to sign so that they can meet their needs. However, I do not sign to the parents I speak normal adult language. When I speak to my colleagues we speak in more medical and therapeutic terms. I am sure that in every day situation our manner in speaking to others changes so the lines of communication will stay open and become strong. Three strategies that I can us to help communicate more effectively with other one is to speak in a respectful manner. Know the audience you are speaking too and speak clear and honest.

Effective Communication

The person who demonstrates competent communication skills is President Obama. He exhibits clear and accurate words that all people understand. He does not use big fancy words; his words are understandable and motivational. He demonstrates the ability to speak appropriately and effective. I would like to model some of my communication behaviors after him because his style of communication encourages people to act and move projects forward. He speaks with confidence, assurance and has good eye contact. This style of communication is needed when speaking to parents or as I am training people for a particular job. It is very important to be effective so that people will feel secure and have trust in your words.