The Effective Communicator
Who is an effective communicator?
An effective communicator conveys their message thoroughly and is receptive and responsive to others' input. Those who are strong communicators speak in a clear, direct manner, using easily understood language. They are typically assertive with their feelings and viewpoints, but they are also open to suggestions from others. When listening, effective communicators make eye contact and use affirmative language like "I hear you" or "I understand your concerns."
My Regional Director: Dr Michelle Pinnock
Dr Pinnock is someone who demonstrates competent communication within a particular context. She knows the ministry's objectives and is adept at communicating with the principals who she leads. In addition, she knows how to listen to others and take direction as needed.
Dr Pinnock speaks honestly and listens closely to others; she is one who individuals will be the first to approach for advice because it can be easier to speak to someone openly when you know your input matters.
Besides, individuals with effective communication skills understand the importance of being direct with their opinions or ideas. For instance, she will say when she thinks the team has a solid plan during important projects or needs to be adjusted. Furthermore, she makes sure to remain assertive and respectful even when she disagrees with others.
In addition, she has a unique way of communicating with others. Her pronunciation, enunciation and how she articulates her words with precision is commendable. The very profound words of encouragement and support that she provides others is solace. Her ideas of incorporating technology in all she does may be more likely to be remembered for generations to come. Furthermore, her overall speech and presentations are full of life, with a warm and caring attitude that demonstrates empathy. Lastly, her body posture, humour, and personal stories tell it all. She is a force to be reckoned with.
Dr Pinnock is someone I would want to emulate because she is a disciplinarian, a woman to her word and someone who inspires hope. I admire her because she is a Transformational Leader who is very resilient. I respect her position because she was once my Technology in Education lecturer in college. In addition, she demonstrated high level, high-quality leadership and communication skills back then. As a result, she maintains that high standard of being the Regional Director.
I think there is a big different in being direct and being rude. Effective communicators have tact and are able to disagree with you without tearing you down, I believe this is what you are talking about. This is such a great skill to emonulate especially as you work with other people in the field and disagreements happen.
ReplyDeleteI do apologize that I am unable to address you by name. I don't have access to your or email address. But, I do agree with you, and you are perfectly right. There is a difference in being direct and being rude. We must always put ourselves in the shoes of others.
DeleteSherida, Thank you again for an exemplary post. It sounds like you have a wonderful role model to emulate in Dr. Pinnock. I also appreciate your media post of the 5 tips and find them to be helpful reminders. I too believe there is a huge part of communication that relies on being direct and simple. Many times, when we try to get too technical in our explanations or directions we can cause there to be confusion or misunderstandings. Thanks again for sharing!
ReplyDeleteBest,
Rebecca
Hello, Rebecca.
DeleteYes, she is a role model for us a principals. (smile)
Hello Sherida!
ReplyDeleteGreat post as always! It is so good when we have an effective communicator as a leader. Even more so when they are responsive, empathetic, and listen attentively. We can learn so much from effective and competent communicators; they serve as role models and inspiration. O'Hair et al. (2018) state that although we are certainly born with some ability to communicate, most of the skills we need to be effective communicators must be learned. The best communicators never stop learning (O'Hair et al., 2018).
I enjoyed reading your post. Thanks for sharing!
Reference
O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication: An introduction (4th. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.
Sherida, thank you for sharing! Dr. Pinnock sounds like a wonderful mentor. Her ability to communicate clearly while articulating her words precisely is something I would like to improve on for myself. Competent communication is an important skill to have in life!
ReplyDeleteHi, Amy.
DeleteThank you for commenting. Yes, she is an amazing mentor.