Putting Communication to Work for You

Why is it Important?? What you say and how you makes a difference in the messages you send. Appropriate actions & attitude will help you be a competent communicator.

Communication Involves more than just speaking. Your attire, how you carry yourself, and your actions speak volumes about who you are.

Terms to Learn Communication Context Appropriateness Role Norm Standard Competent communicator Task skill Relationship skill

Communication The process of creating and exchanging meaning through symbolic interaction.

Symbols Verbal – spoken or written words Non-verbal – gestures, eye contact, tone of voice, etc.

Communicating Messages Even if you are not speaking, you are constantly communicating messages to others about yourself with body language, attire, etc.

Be AWARE The messages you’re sending will present a picture of who you are and what you want to convey about yourself.

Example You have an opportunity for a job shadowing experience at a potential career that you would love to have…let’s say, a veterinarian! In preparation for the job shadowing interview, you have researched the business’s information.

Example continued You arrive at the interview wearing a tank top, house shoes and dirty jeans. Even if you impress interviewer with what you know, you probably won’t get the job shadowing experience.

Example continued The message of your casual attire speaks louder than your knowledge about the vet’s business.

Context The situation in which communication occurs

Context includes: The people present The occasion The task So you can make appropriate communication choices.

Appropriateness What is suitable for a specific situation

Example of Appropriateness Indoor voices and outdoor voices!

Decisions - Decisions Which communication choice is appropriate? Understand how roles and norms operate in a context.

Context Determines Roles & Norms Each context has roles and norms. Communication behaviors appropriate to the context depend on: the roles you play the norms for communication behavior

Role A part played in a specific setting or situation.

What is your role? Depends on the context you’re in. Be aware of the roles you play and flexible enough to change your role as you change contexts You will then be successful in make the appropriate communication choices

Example of your role You have many roles: student, friend, daughter/son, employee, etc. Each context that you are in, you play a different role.

Norm A state or implied expectation. A guideline of what’s appropriate for a given context.

Standard An established level of requirement or excellence.

4 Standards – What is appropriate for communication choices: Yourself – know who you are, what you want to achieve, how you want others to see you Your Listener – their needs, wants, & limitations The Occasion The Task/Job

Competent Communicator Someone who incorporates knowledge, attitude, and skills into his or her communication to communicate effectively and appropriately.

Task Skill A communication skill that relates directly to the business and goals of the group.

Examples of Task Skill Logical thinking Giving clear instructions Listening to understand Effective use of nonverbal behaviors

Relationship Skill A communication skill needed to nurture and maintain goodwill with people.

Examples of Relationship Skills Ability to give & receive direction Tact Courtesy Respect for others Listening carefully

Assignment After reviewing the Powerpoint, ask Mrs. Smith for the assignment for Chapter 1, Section 1.