FOOD SERVICE ASSISTANT …you are important COMMUNICATE FOR SUCCESS

“The best way to open communication is to make people feel important.” —Will Rogers

Definitions COMMUNICATE is an action verb that means to transmit information, thoughts, or feelings so that they are satisfactorily received and understood by another person or group. COMMUNICATION is the action of one person giving (the sender) or getting (the receiver) information needed or wanted.

Communicate for Success What you will learn in this lesson You will learn three or more ways you communicate with coworkers, students, teachers, parents, and other members of the school staff. You will learn how to be effective in verbal, voice, and visual communication.

How We Communicate Verbal Voice Visual Active Listening Spoken or written words Voice Tone of voice Visual Body language The appearance of the serving area, dining area, and menu items Appropriately dressed FSAs Active Listening Watching for the listener’s response

Tips for Improving Communication Allow the other person time to think. Avoid continuous talk while the other person is thinking of how to respond. Put yourself in the shoes of the other person. Listen to your words as if you were the other person. Would you get the point? Read the other person’s body language in response to your conversation. When the person stops listening, it is time for you to stop talking. Watch for nonverbal messages. Nonverbal messages can include changes in skin color, tone of voice, and facial expression; as well as such things as tapping fingers and rolling eyes.

A Key to Effective Communication S SMILE. You will appear more open to listening. MAINTAIN eye contact. You will be seen as more sincere, honest, and informed. M INVITE response by giving the receiver time to think. You will be seen as polite when you allow uninterrupted response. I L LOOK your best; look professional. Be appropriately dressed and use proper food handling procedures. E ENCOURAGE the other person. Keep a pleasant facial expression and give nods to show interest and attention.

What You Learned in the Lesson Communication occurs through words, tone of voice, and body language or what is seen. Communication can have positive or negative outcomes. Communicating effectively is a skill that must be learned. Communication involves a sender and a receiver. Active listening is important. Communication is a shared responsibility. Effective communication is a positive force in achieving SNP goals.

Communicate for Success Effective communication among coworkers builds teamwork. with students promotes customer satisfaction. with teachers helps build the bridge between cafeteria and classroom. is a key to a successful school nutrition program.

National Food Service Management Institute This training was conducted by the National Food Service Management Institute The University of Mississippi www.nfsmi.org 800-321-3054

National Food Service Management Institute The University of Mississippi Mission: To provide information and services that promote the continuous improvement of child nutrition programs Vision: To be the leader in providing education, research, and resources to promote excellence in child nutrition programs