While I do not like to think that I speak with other people from different cultures any different from one another, having been enrolled in this program for the past year, has opened my eyes to all of the many incidences that might have occurred, even without me realizing it. It can be hard to dissect ourselves and our decisions, especially when it comes to communication, as I tend to communicate without truly thinking about what I am saying. I have become more aware of my communication skills, even within the last three weeks, and have made it a point to self-observe my interactions with others to ensure that I am not treating anyone differently or displaying cultural myopia. I am trying to stray away from cultural myopia so that I do not leave anyone offended nor come off defensive of my own beliefs and opinions.
I believe three strategies to communicate more effectively with people from a wide-range of backgrounds, is all about educating ourselves. Firstly, educating ourselves on our own communication skills will make us more aware of how we communicate and how we come across to others. Secondly, educating ourselves about how other people communicate based on their own schema, will help us better identify with others and understand why they communicate differently. Lastly, educating ourselves about the different issues that arise that may interfere with communicating and collaborating effectively will help us ensure every conversation is free from discrimination, prejudice, cultural myopia, and so on.
I agree, just the three weeks that I have been in this class I have been able to listen to myself communicate with my family and co-workers and it makes me want to learn more on how to do it better. I like the three strategies that you choose to help you with communicating. I believe each one of them will help in one way are another. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHi Emily,
ReplyDeleteIntrospection is such an important part of communication! It is important to consider what we say before we say it. This thinking is right in line with the platinum rule in my opinion, you are considering your words and interactions. I feel this is helpful for us when considering how others would prefer to be treated and communicated with!
Awesome picture and it spoke volumes about this weeks blog. Communication is key to becoming successful in our profession.
ReplyDeleteI think the three strategies you came up with are very effective. I agree with you that it is all about educating ourselves. I think when people commit to the idea of educating themselves on a top the more likely they are to do it. I really liked the picture you shared. Great post.
ReplyDelete- Traci