An Effective Communicator
Someone I know that is an effective communicator is Dr. Stan
Toler. Dr. Toler writes books and speaks at large gatherings, both of which he
does very well. In both of these venues, he is able to connect with his audience
in a personal way. One if the ways he does this is through personal anecdotes
that apply to his topic. I have also had the opportunity to interact with him
in a smaller group and found that he is able to use those skills with
individuals as well. He does this by making each person feel as though they are
important and being heard.
I am not sure that my communication skills would
translate as well in the varied circumstances in which Dr. Toler uses his
skills. There are definitely techniques that he employs that would be useful
for me to learn to use. Although I do not foresee writing a book in my future,
I do need to communicate with a variety of group sizes; so, it’s important for
me to be effective in each of those situations. Of special importance is to remember to focus on the individuals with whom I am communicating and letting them know that they are being heard.
Hi Anita,
ReplyDeleteI enjoy reading your blog. You wrote: "One if the ways he does this is through personal anecdotes that apply to his topic". I know exactly what you're talking about. I know a few people that do this, doesn't it just pull you in? I know when I was training to be a CPR Instructor. It really helps people that you are talking with connect with you, when you are able to use personal anecdotes or experiences. It also breaks the ice and gets people talking. Which is huge when they are people that either don't know each other, or don't know me. Good job! :)
Vanessa Aldana
Hi Anita,
ReplyDeleteNice to speak with you here again! I remember when I was a teenager I also read some sorts books about 'how to become a good communicator', or 'How to make yourself heard by everyone'. Then I realized I cannot follow all the 'rules' that the books told me. For the first, I have to be myself and relax. My good colleague gave me a box a cards giving tricks to break to ice. I am still learning to take the first move with people who I know a little in the beginning, as I am the type that be familiar with people in a slow pace. I also agree that talking about personal anecdotes can soften the communicate atmosphere especially with someone you don't know much. I am looking forward to reading more of your articles in the coming 8 weeks. Good post!
Hello Anita
ReplyDeleteGood Communication is always good to have when speaking in the room of a large group or small group. As you mentioned, people like to be heard and feel important which is true. Good communication allows speakers to be heard and listeners to be understood from the speaker. I wish you luck on your improvements to better communication skills. Good post!