Communication is not like one stop shopping. It should be adapted to fit the situation and target audience. Often times personality, age, gender,
profession and culture of the person plays a role in how I communicate. For
example, when volunteering with children, age appropriate verbal and non-verbal
language must be used. The language I use
with children is different than the language I use with adults. When
communicating with children, language should be easy to understand and age
specific.
Understanding
a person’s personality and goals are essential in communicating. I tend to be
information oriented when communicating with colleagues. Information is
exchanged in an effective, to the point way, with little off task
conversations. However, when
communicating with people who are familiar, my behavior is more unrestricted
and flexible.
Communication
is not just common sense. It takes
knowledge, thought, and practice to be successful.
Hi Mary,
ReplyDeleteYour comment about adjusting language and communication to fit the situation and the targeted audience is an interesting concept. I do agree that when communicating with children one needs to conciser their verbal skills and comprehension abilities.I believe that this can be determined be listening to them as they are engaged in conversations with their friends. I also agree that trying to understand a person’s personality and their goals are helpful in getting to know them and better equips you in communicating with them.
Mary,
ReplyDeleteYour last paragraph said it all for me and you worded it very eloquently. Effective communication take years to master. The first step is listening and be willing to admit that you are not always right.