I often find myself communicating differently with people
from different groups and cultures. Most of my family and friends are Nigerian
and when I am around them I find myself speaking in a Nigerian accent. I also
tend to use more eye gestures and hand gestures that is very common among
Nigerians. Also, I tend to not use proper English grammar when communicating
with them.
At work I am surrounded by people of diverse backgrounds. I notice
that I use less eye and hand gestures. I also speak more politely and with
proper English. I am calmer when speaking with my colleagues, whereas at home
or with family I can be louder and raise my voice if in disagreement.
Three strategies I can use to communicate more effectively with
these groups:
1. I can work on not raising my voice with anyone even if
they are my family. I do not like it when I get loud and neither does anyone
around me.
2. Another strategy is that I can try to be more comfortable
at work. I should focus more on having a positive and effective communication
with my colleagues instead of how they will react if I use hand or eye
gestures. Most of us are very comfortable with each other so I can try and be
more comfortable when communicating.
3. One last strategy is that I can listen more and be more
aware of the communication skills of others. If I am in disagreement I can
listen to what others are saying before raising my voice and trying to get my
point across. Raising my voice can also negatively impact my communication and
may not be the communication skill of someone else. If I am the only one
raising my voice then I am not communicating effectively.
I enjoyed reading about your Nigerian culture. Reading about your communication with your family further explains that even within diversity there are commonalities, as I react the same way with my family versus the public.
ReplyDeleteVery similar to what I believe Dorcas! I agree that you should speak proper English when speaking to coworkers and anyone outside of your family and close friends. I think that when people don't do this, they are perceived and judged in a different way, usually the wrong way. I didn't really think about the amount of eye and hand gestures until reading your blog. You're right because I too use less of those. It's so interesting how we know what makes others uncomfortable.
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