Do I find I communicate differently with different groups or cultures?
I never really looked at this before. I tend to watch people's body language and that is how I communicate. I look to see if there is confusion in their face stemming from what I might be saying, is their body becoming ridged or are they crossing their arms from words I am speaking? Examples such as these most often guide my discussions and words. I have noticed I speak slower and clearer when speaking to those who may not understand English very well, not in a demeaning manner but to give processing time. Just a bit of advice speaking really slow and loud does not make someone with another language understand you better! It is amazing in this day and age how many people seem to think that works.
I think the greatest tool we have for better communication is educating ourselves of the various cultures we work with. How do they view communication? Do I make eye contact or look away? Do I speak to the woman in a parenting team or just the man (yes-that is a real thing)? So the first strategy is to educate yourself and be flexible enough to change yourself to meet the listener's style.
I need more practice with the Platinum Rule when speaking and listening with others. I want to be empathetic but I need to make sure I am speaking the way the person needs me to speak and not how I think they need me to speak. In other words, I should not speak as I would want but empathize how another may need to be spoken to always starting with respect.
Be mindful. Remember there will be cultural differences, and try to keep them in your consciousness (Beebe, Beebe, & Redmond, 2011, pg.108). As long as a person is not harming a child there really is no right or wrong way to raise that child. If I think there is, then I am not being mindful of how others may see children and how they need to be cared for or raised. This is a tough one for me and one I struggle with often. Other than those rare occasions, parents love their children and do what they feel is best for them.
Resource
Beebe, S. A., Beebe, S. J., & Redmond, M. V. (2011). Interpersonal communication: Relating to others (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
I agree with you on studying the body language of a person before you began to hold a conversation. Body language can tell you sometimes how I person is feeling rather angry or sad. You are correct with the many people who speak slow and yell at others that may not understand English well. It really does not work and just makes both parties more frustrated. Very good stragies shared that I will definitely use.
ReplyDeleteJennifer,
ReplyDeletecute illustrations, I too look for body language I think it's the best resource that we have especially when dealing with people who are not english speakers. And I think I too need to be more flexible with the platinum rule to be more flexible with other cultures.
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteI am that type of person that crosses her arms when listening to others speak. I have found that some people get offended but I do it to make myself listen better. It is difficult dispelled the traditional reading of this posture. Body language is difficult to read sometimes.
Hi Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteLove your break down, and enjoyed reading your opinions about communication. Body language is very important because people could be giving off a bad vibe and not even know it.