I will improve my ability to read people better by improving my observation, analyze the body language and having a empathy with them.
Thomas,
Great insights again! I think everyone does a little bit of pre-judgment however perhaps there are some other "clues" that people give off that will tell you more about them without judgement.
Dr. Jean Norris
That is very true. When I say reading people from "experience", I mean relating body language, tones and words from past interactions with students to future meetings with students in order to help me interpret what people are really thinking. By doing this I am able to determine how to handle certain questions or which direction to take the conversation in. Unfortunately, I feel that in order to acurately read someone, you do have to make some pre-judgments about an individual.
Thomas,
Very well said. How do you tell the difference between reading people from "experience" or pre-judging though? It can be a slippery slope.
Dr. Jean Norris
I feel that the best way to improve your ability to read people is by experience. The more often you interact with others in different situations, whether it be good or bad, will help to better prepare you for similar situations in the future. I also agree that focusing more on people's body language can really tell you a lot about what they are trying to say and how they intend the message to be received.
By becoming more self-aware and paying attention to what is going on presently.
Chanquinta, great point. Small talk is a key step in building a bond with others and you also get a sense of how people communicate and what they like to talk about.
Dr. Jean Norris
I can improve reading people by simply having small talk.
I would say the best way to improve your ability is one practice and two experiences. I used to be in a position that didn't have much interaction with people and found I used to be horrible at reading people. Since I have taken this position I have realized the value of one face to face interaction and two meeting many different types of people. If you just stick to one socioeconomic range you are limiting your ability to understand people in general. The same behavior/language means completely different things to people of different backgrounds.
Claire, thank you for your honesty. That is great self-awareness. Tell me, what steps are you taking to practice reading people?
Dr. Jean Norris
This is one area that I am still working on, I have a habit of not being to carefully reading people and I am still working on this to improved my ability
Mike,
That's great to hear. Applying what you've learned is a great way to continue to boost your confidence and hone your skills in personal interactions. Good luck.
Dr. Jean Norris
I usually do not spend much time in face to face meetings, but after this course I feel more confident for future meetings. Now that I know what to watch for, it will help me greatly.
Michelle,
It sounds like you do your best to not only hear what is being said, but to see the way it is conveyed, as well as feel the emotion behind it. Excellent practice!
Shannon Gormley
By taking the time to really listen to what they are saying not what I thimk I hear, watching there body language and the tone of there voice, how emotional are they about what they are trying to tell me.
Negative attitude from the student? If yes... I have found it can be low self esteem, bad experience or a personality conflict. Of course, there could be other contributing factors. The three I mentioned are ones that I have encountered.
Thanks Amy. Having a positive attitude can really make a difference and it feels like you have a great start there. I wonder, is there anything else a negative attitude could signal?
Shannon Gormley
I like this! I have encountered individuals who have a negative outlook. I have found when I remain positive and look for ways to compliment the individual, the tone of the meeting can easily change from negative to positive. Many people are nervous when it comes to meeting me and making a change, like going back to school. Negative attitude can simply be a lack of self confidence. It is my job to point out their strengths and remind them of how their life will be better because of education.
Excellent awareness, Meghan. Simply using a mental reminder to slow down and get to know the individual may help you to focus on the whole conversation. Including the messages sent by non verbal cues. Good luck!
I notice that I occasionally dont pick up on others body language. I need to slow down and pay attention more.
