When I think of effective communicators that I would model communication behaviors after, I think of the Ms. Nelly Richards, School Liaison Officer MacDill AFB. Ms. Richards believes in the exchange of thoughts and equal opportunity in communication. She promotes active listening, using open-ended, probing, leading, and reflective questioning to ensure understanding for both parties and to promote a feeling of respect and worthiness. Additionally, she practices active listening, and is able to mediate between two parties, understanding both sides of issues. Her communication skills are have allowed her to be an effective liaison between military families and public schools, and would be excellent skills to include in my own communication behaviors. The level of success in working with any group of people is communication, and adopting her effective commmunication behaviors would ensure that I also practice successful communication.
It seems that Ms. Richard's mediating skills are very good. I have thought about taking a mediation class because of my personal life. I worked with a mediator in a domestic issue. It was amazing how she facilitated the discussion. It seems that Ms. Richards has a vital role in bridging the civilian and military community. That can be very difficult. We are in a military community but don't have a liason. It's usually left to the teacher.
ReplyDeleteMediation is so important Sondi. I am glad you shared this post. It is an excellent skill for communication.
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