I have to understand the degree in which my communication is effective. by understanding this, I may be able to use a combination of key communication factors in order to reach the desired effect of my message to the recipient
Catherine, Great awareness and solution! Thank you for posting!
Dr. Jean Norris
I want to use more eye contact. I think that is one of the greatest ways to improve body language communication. I also would like to have a clock positioned behind the student so I do not check my watch while speaking to him or her. I learned in module 2 that conveys boredom. Sometimes, it is just to make sure I am not spending too much time on any one topic. I would not want to convey the wrong impression!
Catherine, Great awareness! What are some ways you can help improve your body language communication?
Dr. Jean Norris
As an admissions representative for an online college, all of our communications are by phone or written messages. I did not realize body language was such a large percentage of the communication component for face-to-face meetings! I adapt to the students' style by trying to clarify the essentials they need to know about our programs. I also try to learn something about their background to help build a relationship with potential students. As the first person who contacts the student, I want to make sure I am reflecting the goals of our school.
Samantha, It's great that you are so flexible! How specifically, have you adapted your communication styles?
Dr. Jean Norris
I in life have been blessed with ability to adapt very well to all different changes and one fo those being in communication. I am good at being able to adapt depending on the other person and there best form of sending and recieving information.
I am new to admissions and am always trying to find new ways of communicating with students and potential students.
That sounds like a great plan, Carlos. How do your students react to this type of communication?
Dr. Jean Norris
What i usually do is set an up front contract with the potential student,in this i set a time and what we will be going over, i make sure they agree,this gives me a easier transition when the conversations gets off track to be able to get back to the subject without the individual feeling like i'm controlling him or her .
Adam, Great suggestions! Listening, at times, can be even more important than speaking. Would you agree?
Dr. Jean Norris
I have found that listening is just as important as speaking. Listen first, wait to properly formulate your reply. In other words, think before reacting. Also lead by example, intuitive peers will take note of your efforts to effectively communicate!
Adam, Open dialogue amongst peers is excellent, and great questions you ask! Will you share your experiences to your questions?
Dr. Jean Norris
One aspect of effective communication is open dialogue amongst peers. Eliminating unnecessary boundaries and establishing a sense of equality improves communication. Treat everyone with respect and value their communication through acknowledgement and validation. Without value, communication can be stifled. Has anyone ever felt undervalued through communication from a peer? How did you adapt your reply to the offending party?
Marianne, Great awareness! At what point do you think it's okay to steer the conversation back on course?
Dr. Jean Norris
I agree that relationships with people are the most important aspect of communication. You should never be rude and interrupt, no matter how far the subject goes off course. The more comfortable someone feels talking to you, the more likely they are to let you lead the conversation back to where it needs to be.
Michael, Great points! You are correct in that it is very important to reflect on the conversation; how do you think this will help in building rapport with your student?
Dr. Jean Norris
Always staying within the guidelines given. Don't go beyone the point where the person you're talking to will feel out of their comfort zone. It's important to reflect back on previous parts of the conversation to ensure that person knows you're paying attention to them.
Ricky,
You make so many great points, all of which are accurate. It is extremely important to give the correct information, state it succinctly, and be clear in what you are communicating. The last statement about giving the information is key! Great job.
Dr. Jean Norris
I believe some of the best practices in adapting in communication ventures is to have a ground floor advantage:
1. Be accurate in the information you're delivering and receiving. In delivery it should be exactly what it's needed. In receiving, the information should be repeated back to ensure you understand.
2. Be brief - It should be noted that communications at times can be very lopsided when it comes to who's talking and who's listening. Know the information you're delivering without giving an address to the nation.
3. Be clear - Clarity is something that can be lost in conversations, especially in formal or informal introductions. It's important to bring the conversation back around by building bridges such as, "Let me be clear in what I'm trying to say.." or, "If I understand you right.."
These three points maintain a overall balance in the direction of the communication, the insight of the communication, and whether or not you've done your job in getting the person or persons the information they need.
Mandy,
Thank you for sharing your approach. It sounds like you have a great way of assisting the student, acknowledging their needs, and keeping the conversation on track. Great job!
Dr. Jean Norris
