Communication

 

The Importance of Communication

Having strong communication skills aids in all aspects of life - from professional life to personal life, and everything that falls in between.  All transactions result from communication, so good communication skills are essential to allow others and yourself to understand information more accurately and quickly.

With our conversation about norms this past week, our continued conversations about building connections with students, and the upcoming conversation about the staff survey results (to include communication), this week's Blog is about the importance of communication.

Things that support strong communication:

Listening

It's important to practice active listening - pay close attention to what others are saying, and clarifying anything that is unclear by rephrasing or questioning to gain a greater understanding.

Open-mindedness

In situations where you disagree with what someone else has to say, it's important to sympathize with their point of view rathe rthan simply try to get your message across.  Respect the opinion of others and build an understanding of their perspective when they don't agree with you.

Respect

Respecting what others have to say and acknowledge them is an important aspect of communication.  Being respectful can be as simple as paying attention to what they ahve to say, using the person's name, and not being distracted.  Be respecting others, the other person will feel appreciated, which will lead  to a more honest and productive conversation.

Tomorrow's staff meeting will review the staff survey results from this fall, with communication being an area that we will find ways to strengthen.  I encourage you to think of ways we can continue to develop strong and effective communciation throughout our building - with both students and staff.