Part of it is knowing the audience. Sometimes you have to try one way and if it's not getting the outcomes you want, then shift to another way. It's nice to have all of these 'tools' in your belt!
Bobbi,
So how do you know which style to use and when to use it?
Dr. Jean Norris
In admissions, the 'phone is best' when it comes to contacting our students is getting harder and harder to do as students don't want to talk on the phone. They want to text, or just show when they want to, etc. You have to be able to use multiple styles and know when to use each to really connect with your students.
The assist me by allowing me to understand them. Once I understand them I can treat them in the manner that they wish to be treated. They will be more receptive which will allow me to really communicate with them effectively.
As far as hindering me, it's allow the learning curb I will have to deal with. It will take time to learn to apply all the styles quickly and effectively but once I get that down pack, it should be good to go.
That's a safe approach Felicia. How do you customize your approach once you learn more about the other persons communication style?
I find that traditional communication is always best if you not sure of students or coworkers communication style
You bring up a great point Roberta. It can be easy to get stuck in our standard approach and the overlapping of styles can help to provide different perspectives. Thank you for your insight.
I totally agree with Judy. The overlapping of communication styles gives me the flexibility that is needed when working with multi generationmal students as well as fellow staff members. It helps to broaden my thinking patterns and helps to keep me from getting "stuck" in one way of approaching or looking at a situation.
You bring up some very good points. The formula for communication relies upon the sender and the receiver understanding the same message. What you present in your post reminds us that it's actually the sender's responsibility to make sure that the receiver understands the message. Thank you for your post Michelle!
I think overlapping styles of communication assists me in connecting with those I interact with at work because everyone does hear the same thing. When you are able to communicate with someone in a way where they actually hear you the results are substantially better. It can hinder me be appearing inconsistent/unfair to those who may not understand generational preferences.
You make a great point, the techniques and styles we use to reach a prospective student might not be the best for delivering detailed information, but it does allow us to begin the conversation. Asking good questions can facilitate moving to the next step. I'm curious, how have you successfully moved to the next step with your students?
I have found that the variety of the overlapping styles have assisted me in connecting with my students. I am an admissions representative and find that the emails that I recieve requesting information ,though they provide phone numbers for contact noone ever answers the phone. Or for that matter return calls. I can send an email out or text message out and recieve responses..This form of communication is at least a contact but it hinders me in my ability to provide the student with greater detailed information.
Geoffrey,
Bewilderment???? I guess that's one way of looking at it but just imagine how those things may become second nature after awhile. You may just wonder how you ever did without them, right? :)
Dr. Jean Norris
Indeed it does. And in the media I seem to hear quite a bit about all the apps...adding to my sense of bewilderment! HA HA
Geoffrey,
Seems as if everyone has a smart phone these days, doesn't it?
Dr. Jean Norris
It is not their preferred method of communication, my children ages 13 thru 26 certainly do not use the home phone. It is pretty funny, if you do actually get someone's home phone number, those that still have them, when you call most likley you will be talking to a prospects grandparent!
Geoffrey,
Yes, technology can be a hurdle especially if it's not your preference. I'm curious, what do you think today's generation thinks about phone calls to their home?
Dr. Jean Norris
Of course, the more communication styles that are utilized the more likley it is to be able to communicate with everyone. Identifying with the Baby Boomers, I find I have no interest in things such as Twitter or Facebook...even going to the websites for these, then they ask you to create an account...I don't want to create an account. It is a real turn off for me.
I don't find the overlapping styles of communication hindering, at all. At times I find I need to take a moment and not react to a conversation or situation, but to remember where the student or colleague's perspective is. Working with multiple generational styles for 15 years has given me the opportunity to be flexible in my thinking to work with students and/or colleagues to achieve our goals.
I find that being able to meet with anyone who "pops in", schedules an appointment or communicate with them via email or text, everyone seems pleased that they've been heard or acknowledged - but that's during the day. Where my Gen-X comes in is when I'm off the clock - my personal time is "my time." Our Baby Boomer staff will email and text students during the day and when they're at home. But that's not something I'm willing to do and, luckily, my job doesn't require it. I find that I'm able to communicate effectively with all generations but I find myself drawn to the Millennials to be more of a mentor to them through school. Having started that trend has made them more interested in their program of study and thus having an excitement to work in this profession after they graduate.
