I do find myself communicating differently with people from different groups and cultures in an effort not to offend others because I don't want to push my view points on others. I also communicate differently with others based on my relationship with that person, depending on if it is a family member, co-worker or family that I am serving.
2. If yes, in what ways do you communicate differently?
I am very friendly with everyone that I communicate with but my comfort level is better with my family than with the families that I serve. It is easier to talk with my family members because I can let my guard down but this is not the case with my co-workers or the families that I serve. I have a role to play in each of these areas and it is my responsibility to make sure that I do not slack in any of these areas. I like to present myself as approachable and helpful to my co-workers and the families I serve but I dont want to come across as being offensive or make anyone feel uncomfortable based on their race. I find myself avoiding subjects such as religion and child-rearing in an effort not to start a debate or step on the beliefs of others.
3. Based on what you have learned this week, share at least 3 strategies you could use to help you communicate more effectively with the people or groups you have identified.
- Eliminate all biases about the subject or the culture that you are communicating with to help you communicate more effectively.
- Being willing and open to accept the opinions of others even if it comes in the form of criticism
- Ask questions and continue to seek answers for topics that you have limited experience in dealing with because it can help in your development of effective communication.
