Principles of Communications
It very helpful to have eye contact with everyone in the room; also always try to ask open ended questions for more feedback. I restate the answers to questions answered to make sure that I am properly listening and viewing everyone’s point of view.
I think open-ended questions are a great way to help people feel comfortable, to talk about what's on his/her mind, and/or bring up concerns.
Thank you for your ideas Tracy. What can you do to prepare for each visit to put these into practice?
Dr. Jean Norris
Listening and looking for body language will help me know how the conversation is going. Repeating and asking open ended questions reinforces the communication. I can see where this is something that is hard to do with every conversation. You might not feel well or might be tired so it is something that I have to be aware of so I'm not displaying bad body language.
I think this is a great idea. This way the student is encouraged to stay engaged in the presentation and will be actively communicating with you. Asking them what they hope to learn shows genuine sincerity.
When conducting an iformation session with students I think it is important to allow them to ask at least one question before you begin your presentation. You also ask them what is something that they hope to learn as go through your presentation.
Diane, I appreciate you sharing your personal experience here. Typically, I've found that "why" questions can result in a defensive response. Is there a way you could re-frame your question without using the word "why?"
Dr. Jean Norris
I do want to mention, when speaking with residents in nursing homes. We are taught to ask "why" when they refuse or decline treatment. I find that if you dont ask why when a resident is communicating to you, you do not get the whole picture. If you approach a resident that it is time to eat and they say "no, I don't want to" and you respond "why, do you not want to go Ms. Jones" It may be that she has a headache and wants you to come back later. If you just say OK, then the simple task of treating the headache and coming back later would be missed
Fernando,
That is a great technique! Do you find this difficult to do?
Dr. Jean Norris
