The one thing that surprised me the most about myself as a communicator is that others think that I am a confident person who doesn't get scared when I have to speak at meetings or in front of groups of people. The truth is that I get very scared and I try very hard to hide it. I guess I do that well because they could not tell. I have always had a hard time being in the spot light, even as a child.
I learned this week that it is important to be a good or great communicator when talking with parents, children and/or co-workers. It is very important to have good communication skills when dealing with others in your private life as well as your professional life.
Emily when communicating be sure to leave communication lines open to those who may need to address problems with you. You will find that you prevent the small issues that normally have the habit of becoming large ones by making those in your life aware that you are open to discussing issues at any time. Being patient is also important. During your communications with others always give them time to communicate their issues as well. Remaining focused on what they are trying to communicate will show them that you are indeed open to assisting with their issues. Many lines of people’s communication tend to break down because people are impatient and in a rush to get out of the conversation. Since you cannot control the other side, do yourself a favor and take a breath. The conversation you’re involved in is important. I too learned that it is important to be a effective communicator when dealing with all even in our private life.
ReplyDeleteEmily,
ReplyDeleteCommunicating with each of my colleagues has helped me open up with the children and parents in my program. I also have learned to be much more confident and speak freely in front of a big audience as well. I am grateful to be a part of these intelligent, brave individuals and share so much stories with each other.
-Talisha
Hi Emily, Like you I was perceived as more competent at public speaking than I felt I actually was.We may do a good job at masking our nervousness. With our families and co workers it is important to communicate effectively, it is very important to listen as well. Possibly the way we listen is even more important than what we say.
ReplyDeleteEmily,
ReplyDeleteI am with you on the public speaking. I am shaking in my shoes when I have to speak in front of a group of people or to people I am unfamiliar with. I was also perceived as more confident by the people who took the assessment for me. It is amazing what we project and what we really feel isn't it?
Emily,
ReplyDeleteI too have a fear of speaking in public, but it would be hard to believe because someone is always asking me to speak in meetings and at forums. I have learned that as long as I feel comfortable with the information I am sharing I can talk all day. If I am not familiar with certain material or don't like the subject that is being discussed I try to rush through the conversation or presentation because I don't like feeling as though I don't know what I'm talking about. If people feel that you are confident when you speak I'm sure they feel as though you know what you are talking about so they are willing to listen.
Emily
ReplyDeleteYou are not alone I get scare sometimes when I have to speak front of large group. I use this technique I pick one person out of the group and focus on them that help me. Thank you for sharing.
Emily I too found that others feel I am a confident communicator and at times I feel I am not but this is a skill I am working towards. I always say I am a great communicator with children. But children are not the ones who make decisions about their life. I communicate with parents and administrators constantly and have to be able to clearly but nondecisively so we can find a common ground to better serve the children in our community. Being in spotlight are things we struggle with even as child, but seeing those qualities in the children we interact with to fosters good communication as time goes on will help for their future.
ReplyDelete