If someone ventures off track on the phone call and starts asking questions that I would prefer to cover in a face to face conversation, I usually respond with a question to get them back on track and to gain control of the conversation again. Another thing is to acknowledge the validity of the question and tell them to write down any other pertinent questions they have, and then assure them they will be addressed in the face to face conversation. These techniques, as well as mastering the art of controlling, directing, and leading a conversation, help keep the phone call conversation on track.
Sandra,
Great awareness! Those in front of you can tell if they have your full attention. It's important to remember that whatever is coming out of a students' mouth is important to them, which in turn is important to you! Great job and thank you for sharing.
Dr. Jean Norris
One key point that I need to work on is multi-tasking while others are speaking to me. I need to focus on the conversation and practice my listening skills. I also need to show the person speaking to me that I am engaged by becoming actively involved by showing through my body language that I am "engaged" in the conversation.
Sophia,
So it sounds like you allow the student to be heard and then provide a response that is customized and specific to the student's wants and needs - great approach! Thank you for providing the example.
Dr. Jean Norris
If a student is worried about passing the entrance exam to be enrolled. The student will start to explain past testing and schooling. I can let them finish and explain our study guides to help with testing. I can adapt the conversation to what the student is needing.
Sophia,
Sounds interesting. How specifically do you do this? Can you provide an example for us?
Dr. Jean Norris
Always let the potential student finish the statement then bring it back to the key points
Great insights Natalie! Taking the time to be aware of our opportunities and then trying new techniques can help us improve our overall communication. Let us know how your new skills work out for you!
I will be aware of my tone during phone conversations. I understand that the body language I convey may be a key factor in how the student interprets my information regarding class information and Everest.
I know it is important to state why I am calling/emailing and to present an intention clearly.
Well I have to thank you for your honesty, James. How about I toss the ball in your court and have you engage the group with a great question?
I didn’t identify any key points, you revealed them to me. I don’t know how I will adapt, but I hope I do it well. Before drafting this response I thought about the intent of this post, the essence of my message, the value I provide and what I want.
The intent is to simply respond to your request. The essence is a bit aloof, because I don’t feel like responding, but know I should. The value I bring is that of a compliant student. What I hope for in the future are open ended questions that inspire me to communicate a powerful message that will encourage others to join in my discussion.
It looks like you're using different methods to communicate with the visual, auditory and kinesthetic learners. Nice job! How can you incorporate more kinesthetic types of activities to help the 'doers' understand the concepts better?
Being able to adapt to various commuinication styles and knowing what style you are using is very important. You become more able to communicate effectively in various situations and help eliminate, or at least reduce, the issue of mistaken comminucation.
I assist students in placement strategies. As truck drivers and heavy equipment operators, they are not used to classroom learning, they are doers. During the one hour session it is very common for the participants to misunderstand what is being communicated. I Tell them what I'm going to tell them. I tell them. I write the key points on the white board. We role play an interview scenario. Each person who shares their experience(s) gets a prize. I will ask for someone to give an example of what so and so just shared. By getting everyone involved we get many different answers that help everyone to be exposed to thoughts that they would not have considered. When the communication ventures beyond the key points I will speak directly to the individual and say that although there are NO WRONG answers, we're going to coach you to apporach it "this way". Then I tell them what I've told them. Keeping it simple, fun, and repitition are the keys.
Elizabeth,
Yes, the idea of flexibility or improvising is essential however it is not as easy as it sounds. Have you found that others your work with prefer a script or outline to manage conversations?
Dr. Jean Norris
Elizabeth,
I really appreciate your comment about speaking WITH (not to) each student. Very insightful!
Dr. Jean Norris
Being able to adapt is paramount to good communication. Individuals are different, not on script. Any good communicator need to know how to improvise. People are not predictable.
I agree that listening is paramount to good communication with students. Every student is an individual and it is important to get to know them by listening. Not only to their words but to their tone of voice and body language expression. This enables us to speak WITH (not to) each student as an individual, which in turn builds rapport and trust.
Yes, it seems that feedback is vital in the communication process to be able to guide the conversation down the correct path.
It sounds like you're recognizing how important it is to pay attention to audience feedback and being flexible in your communication. Practicing your skill will only make it easier.
