Effective Communication Across Cultures

At first, when asked if I communicated differently with people of different groups and cultures, my first instinct was to reply with the answer of "no".  However, with further introspect, I very much do respond to people of other cultures differently.  However, I don't feel that I do it in a negative way.

Throughout my day, I deal with children, colleagues,families of my students, my daughter and husband. In looking at my communication with them, I have taken notice of a few things.

When communicating with all of the above, I am really trying to be a good listener.  Often in the past, I would be so preoccupied with what I could say in response, that i was not truly listening.  I have been quieter in conversations as of lately, but I feel that i am making a better effort at being a better listener.

When communicating with the families of my children, I really have been trying to think about how I as a mother, would like to be dealt with by my child's teacher.  Do I want to hear what my child can't do or what they can do?  Do I want to know that my child is cared for by their teacher and they want to help them grow?  Yes, of course I do.  I have been approaching all of the parents I deal with in the same manner.

When communicating with my husband or daughter, I have found in the past that we can be the most disrespectful with each other.  at times, we can be quick to snap at each other whereas we might not act the same toward someone who is not so close.  This course has helped me to see that I need to treat them as "they" would want to be treated.  We can't stop effective communication at the door.

I do believe we can tailor our communication to the different groups and cultures we come across.  this doesn't have to be negative, but rather a positive change that helps us communicate and relate in a better way.