Sunday, November 18, 2012

Communicating across cultures and groups


This week, I realized that I do communicate differently with people from different groups.  I am rather shy when I meet people, especially adults.  I don’t really have a problem talking to children on a first meeting but I completely clam up when I meet adults.  A little odd but I have always been that way.  When I first meet someone, I do a lot more listening than talking but once I get to know them, I finally open up without any problems.  When it comes to people from different groups, I find that I am more direct and to the point.  By nature, I talk fast but when I communicate with children or people outside of my culture, I tend to slow down and exaggerate my gestures.
                Three strategies I could use to help me communicate more effectively with people from other groups or cultures include: 1) ask questions when I do not understand or when something is unclear, 2) do not pass judgment before listening to what the other person has to say in entirety, 3) be aware of the non-verbal communication I am displaying.  I believe that using these three strategies will help me be a better communicator with people from any group.

3 comments:

  1. Melinda,
    I like the three strategies that you listed in order to help you better communicate with others. I think by following these you will overall become a more effective communicator.

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  2. I am very shy when meeting new adults. I also the quite one until I get to know them better and feel comfortable enough to communicate. Great strategies.

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  3. Great blog! I use to be shy but since I have became Director and attend many workshops where I am mostly called on to give my opinion or talk about an activity that I will do with the children for oe of the development skills. I am now more outgoing and very comfortable with meeting new individuals. I really enjoyed reading your blog.

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