Communicating Differently & Effectively

I tend to communicate differently when working with children, when talking with family members, and even talking with friends. I also recognize that I express myself differently through body language, at work I carry myself as a professional, I do not slouch, I make eye contact, and I am an effective listener. When speaking with my mother, I typically use formal language and use polite words that I would not usually use when talking with friends. When speaking with my brother or friends I frequently use slang words, OMG, LOL, Yah, but with my parents its May I, Thank You, and Please. During this course, I am trying to carry over a more professional side when talking with friends and also working on effective listening. I sometimes do not use direct eye contact, or I cross my arms and lean on one side of my body which could come off negatively to family members, colleagues, and students parents.

            I also became conscious of how my culture can facilitate negative communication skills, as an Italian-American, I use my hands, I have a potty mouth, and I can become extremely short with individuals when I feel I am being attacked. These traits can sometimes carry over into my professional life and cause more harm than good. Becoming conscious of these behaviors and expressions I can improve myself as a professional, friend, daughter, wife, and person. There are many strategies that ensure effective communication, such as, following the Platinum Rule, being aware of our limitations and abilities, focus on the other individuals feelings and thoughts, paying attention to non-verbal expressions, and listening to the true meaning of a conversation. Understanding where I struggle will allow me to grow as a professional and become an effective communicator and listener when working in the early childhood field and as an individual.