Do you find yourself communicating differently with people from other groups and cultures?
Yes!
I find myself communicating differently with Caucasians. As an African American woman who grew up in a poverty environment, I was told that some whites believe that blacks are uneducated and guilty of being involved with criminal acts. For that reason, I feel that I have to prove that stereotype to be incorrect whenever I converse with a white person.
I find myself to be more of an attentive listener when I communicate with a white person. I also find myself using "big words" that I would never use while talking with family and friends. I smile more than usual because I want to eliminate the assumptions that black women have bad attitudes and are very angry people. I use less humor. In fact, I become a little nervous while communicating with Caucasians because I feel that I have to prove a point; which is very unfortunate.
So, what are three strategies that can help me to communicate more effectively with this race?
*Relax. People can tell when others are nervous. Try to find comfort and refrain from proving a point.
*Use humor. Use humor when the opportunity is presented. Let's face it, we all love to laugh. However, be careful to not offend anyone.
*Stop using "big words." This could really cause friction in communication. I can not assume that all white are comfortable with using these types of words in a relaxed setting. Also, I can not assume that all white people may know the meaning to those choice of words.
I need to relax more, geesh!
Hi Latasha,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post. I also tend to try and prove the stereotype wrong by being more formal around others I do not know. This includes every ethnicity. I really like your strategy to RELAX! I think I am tense around others I do not know because I need to learn to relax. Thanks for sharing this!
Hi Latasha,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great post! I loved your suggestions for communicating more effectively. I also need to learn to relax. I get extremely nervous when with a group that I do not know.
Christina
I often wonder why it is that I too get so nervous around persons whom I perceive to be of a higher social standing. I always try to impress them with my speech and attitude. But indeed I need to Relax. After all they are people too. Thanks for the advice Latasha. Good post!
ReplyDeleteHi Latasha,
ReplyDeleteI think the three strategies you mentioned will be helpful in communicating with other groups and cultures. Sometimes our thoughts and perception is totally different from those we are speaking to. Thanks for sharing. I think I am use them myself. :)
Great Post!
ReplyDeleteI too become very nervous in groups that I do not know. I tend to shut down and stay to myself. I could benefit from learning to relax in situations like this. Thanks for the positive suggestions on how to effectively communicate with others.