I think the thing to do if this occurs is to embrass and ADAPT. The truth is you are not able to plan for every situation and sometimes you have to be able to adjust at a momments notice, this to me is part of any individuals growth process. We have all been in situations we thought we were prepared for, but some how some way something changed causing us to feel uncomfortable. One of two things happen you Adapt or you fail.
These are good practices, Middalia. It sounds like you strive to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what it being communicated. It's great that you take the time to repeat back and check in for clarity! What else might you do to further your understanding?
When I am speaking to an individual and I am not quite sure that I am understanding them. I will try various things such as asking open ended questions or repeating what they are saying for clarification or asking am I understanding you correctly, do you mean?
Since I do not send out written communication to students, I doubt that my communication will differ.
I will adapt by watching how other individuals are communicating and I will use their skills and cultivate and develop from there so that I am able to help my students in the best way possible.
Interesting points, Ashleigh. Staying on track in a conversation is important, especially if you have something to accomplish. I'm curious, how do your students typically respond to your approach to bring the conversation back to the initial key points?
When a conversation goes awry sometimes it is hard to reel it back in. Best practice for when you get off key points is...
1. Recognize that you are off topic/key points
2. State that while you are enjoying the conversation, you have a purpose.
3. Bring the conversation back to where it should be.
Even if it means interrupting a person when they are speaking. It is important to remember there is a purpose to every conversation and if that purpose isn't realized, the conversation is a a waste of time and energy.
I commend you for being willing to step out of your comfort zone in an effort to adapt and improve the way you communicate with others, Kate. Good for you! It sounds like you've made a commitment to try something different for yourself. I'm sure that the individuals you communicate with most will appreciate your efforts. Good luck!
I think I will start to prepare more for face-to-face and phone communication. I’m not as comfortable with face-to-face, especially if there are more than two people involved. Being aware of the different parts of communication and their impact has changed my way of thinking.
Another way I feel I need to adapt is to working on not avoiding uncomfortable communication. Written communication something I’ve always enjoyed doing and therefore felt confident in. I need to avoid complacency and constantly seek to improve, even if I feel I’m as good as I’ll get. I’m going to keep in mind that there is always room for improvement and something new to learn.
Excellent points Tovin. You bring up two key things. First is the ability to understand if what you are doing is working or not. This takes keen observation and awareness to recognize and diagnose the situation. Secondly, if it's not working...what tools do you have to adapt and do something differently?
Again, sounds as if you do this naturally. Good Work!
I think we are always adapting, as life situations aren't always mapped out. I've had to adapt when doing a presentation when I don't get participation. I usually have to take a step back and think about what relates to the class/student. Generally when you don't get participation it's because you are not relating to the students. You counteract that by probing to find the hot button, and then piggy back off of what's important to them. I have had to do that in in home presentations when you watch body language like the the arms folding. That will get them back engaged in your message.
It's true, adaptability is so important when working with students. What are some cues that you look for that signal it's time for you to adapt your approach?
I agree with you. I feel that it is necessary to be aware of my surroundings, and then begin to adapt.
Presenting in front of large groups can definitely be intimidating! I believe it's one of the top fears people have in life. What specifically about large group presentations is intimidating to you, Aida?
I think the key word in your question is "adapt". I will do just that based on what communication sitiuation I find myself in. Im my job I do presentations in front of classrooms of students (sometimes over 40 students at a time). I also am responsible for telemarketing and face to face interactions. I do feel comfortable with all three but the I mentioned large group presentations because they are more intimidating.
