Kelly, Interesting! Knowing your preferences, what are ways you can discover those preferences with your students?
Dr. Jean Norris
I think the great thing about not knowing how everyone prefers to communicate is that you can try different methods. Personally, I like to communicate differently during the day when my kids are up from the evening. I don't mind calls or even emails during the day (I strongly prefer emails). At night when my kids are asleep and I have alone time with my husband I put my phone away. I don't mind a text but I do take offense to getting calls in the evening. Unless its prearranged with someone that works during the day or maybe has kids themselves, in which case I understand not being able to give your full attention during the afternoon to a phone call.
Daniel, Waiting to see how a student responds is a good measurement. I'm curious, do you offer them all of these options, or do they choose their communication preference on their own?
Dr. Jean Norris
Typically I start with a safe form of communication like email since most people are okay with that. Then based on the response and as I get to know people better they typically will reveal their preference in the way they communicate with you.
Some students respond well to email, other will send you text responses to emails, and other will call you instead. Based on the way they return initial contact it is usually possible to deduce which way they lean towards.
Wilmer, Those are all good suggestions. It sounds like you really take the time to get to know those you are communicating with. Thank you for sharing!
Dr. Jean Norris
If given the opportunity to speak with them initially, I will simply ask them. Most times people will tell you up front what is their preferred method of communication. If I'm not given that opportunity to find out, I will then email first. This seems to be the least intrusive way of communicating and then if there is no reply I will call and leave a message if they do not answer. Third, I will text. Usually if someone is interested in what my question or discussion is they will respond to one of these. If it is another situation, I will wait instead of continually reaching out via phone, email, or text and just speak to them face to face when the opportunity presents itself.
Heather, All great options for discovering email or phone communication. How do you identify personal preference communication, such as visual, auditory, or kinesthetic?
Dr. Jean Norris
I usually go with an email communication first, and if they respond quickly with details then I will continue with that way of communication. If I do not get a response, then I go for the phone and lastly I try texting. I will also base the communication on what age I think or know they are. Once I have established communication then I will check on what they prefer the communication method be.
Chelsea,
Great approach! This used in conjunction with understanding their schedule is helpful!
Dr. Jean Norris
I always ask how they would like to be contacted and I note it so when I need to contact them I contact them the best way
Thelma, All things that will help students to succeed. As far as their communication preference, what in the students' responses are you listening for to give you insight as to what their preference is?
Dr. Jean Norris
I listen to our attendance reports and reasons why students are missing class. We like to be very proactive when it comes to attendance and retention.
I also listen to all dept managers as to student complaints so we can change the things we can to make it a happier campus.
Thelma, Great idea. What are some of the things or clues you listen for?
Dr. Jean Norris
I would ask open ended questions and listen carefully to their replies to gain insight on their preference.
Michael, Asking questions, and listening, is key. Patience is always a part of communication. What are some other things that you can do determine someone's communication preference?
Dr. Jean Norris
Continue to ask questions and be patient.
Julie, That's a great way to provide customer service to your students. What about your students' communication style in relation to behavior?
Dr. Jean Norris
As an Admissions Rep for a Cosmetology School, I work with every age group, race, gender, etc. I have learned to simply ask them what their preferred method of contact is and be sure to make a note of that. This question is also important for financial reasons. While most have access to unlimited texting, minutes, and data; there are some who do not. Asking this question prevents frustration on many levels and shows respect on the admissions rep's part. Respect is key when working with the different generations.
K.C.,
These are all great suggestions and show great awareness on your part. What do you suggest as a tactic to discover these differences?
Dr. Jean Norris
Keep in mind that people’s talents, skills, and personalities are different. Some people
are intimidated by a very direct style. Some people aren’t comfortable responding
on the spot; they need to go away and think things over before
responding. Some people need lots of detailed data and information, while others
want to understand issues from a big-picture perspective or only want to talk
about the human impact. Observe people’s interactions and individual differences
in communication styles and try to respect these as much as possible. Make it a
priority to fully understand and respect the unique job challenges of each
person who reports to you.
