Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Competent Communicator

     As I considered the question of someone who demonstrates competent communication skills, I immediately thought of Oprah Winfrey.  She exudes sincerity, frankness, and realism when she speaks to an audience of many or one on one interviews.  As I watched her shows, and even tuned into her life before and during the taping of her shows, I was mesmerized at how easy she made talking to people on any subjects appear effortless, and one of my reasons for choosing Speech Communication as a major in college.

     Some of the behaviors shown by Oprah are her ability to pay attention to everything others are saying, and to offer comments based on specific details, not just her opinions or emotions.  While empathizing with her listeners, she gets others to view ideas without offending but making you deliberate on what was stated.  She has a way of helping you uncovering what is important to and for you, as well as those in your presence.

     I definitely would want to model some of my own communication behaviors after Oprah as she finds common ground with all those she addresses while being sincere, and tactful, yet always leaving you with something to contemplate.

4 comments:

  1. Terri,

    What a wonderful example! Oprah definitely exudes so many effective communication skills. She appears to be an active listener, as well as provides insight and validity to all of her guests. I also am impressed with her ability to remember specific details and not simply her own opinion.

    Thanks for sharing; I would have totally forgotten about Oprah!

    Have a great weekend, Terri!

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  2. Terri,
    I agree this is a very good example of a competent communicator. Oprah definitely knows how to get others to sit up and pay attention. She has evolved so much over the years to become a powerhouse for many women, and men to look up to and emulate.

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  3. Terri, you made a great choice. I also appreciates how Oprah makes the person she is talking to feel like the most important in her life at that time. This is such a great skill.

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  4. Terri,
    Oprah is definitely someone who displays great communication skills. She is very real in her delivery and is able to make a connection with most. I would love to see her in person. Great choice.

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