I never thought about evaluating myself or how
others evaluated me as a communicator before taking this course. The one thing
that surprised me the most was realizing that I am a time-oriented listener. I
really need to work on this because I do not want to continue to put a time
limit on how long I can communicate with someone. I must stop watching the
clock when others are communicating with me.
Some insights that I have gained about communication
this week are being a competent and effective communicator and listener is very
important. Effective communication skills are crucial to our success in life.
Also, listening is important and the key to all effective communication. Listening
is a great way to connect to another person. Being a good listener can have many benefits
in our personal and professional lives. Being a good communicator can help us
avoid misunderstanding and potential conflicts with others. These insights will
inform my personal life and professional work by helping me to learn to listen
and improve my communication skills when interacting with others.
LaShaunda,
ReplyDeleteI didn't think about reflecting on how others perceived me until I closed my in-home program and entered the public sector, and let me tell you--it was an eye-opener!! I have been told that my confidence in my role as an early childhood professional is quite intimidating to my colleagues, which really baffles me. I have never been told that I am cocky or arrogant (and I don't believe that I am), which I could understand, but I really don't understand how someone's confidence would be intimidating to others. So then I thought, "Well, maybe they think I'm unapproachable," but that clearly isn't the case, because my co-workers and colleagues often ask me for advice. So you are not alone in figuring out your communications style/skills. I wish you well as you continue to strive to become an even more effective communicator. :)
Pamela
Hi LaShaunda
ReplyDeleteBefore this class, I too had not given much thought to reflecting on my communication skills or how my communication was being assessed by people. This week we were given the opportunity to do just that. This I believe was necessary since in the early childhood field communication is critical in fostering and maintaining the positive relationships necessary for the healthy growth and development of children. Our role then is to identify our weaknesses and identify ways of improving them.