The individuals I choose to assess me were a colleague, of a little over a year, and a close friend, of four years. I was very anxious to see if both individuals evaluated me the same and if not, how and in what area the difference was shown.
On the Communication Anxiety Inventory across the board my score was in the Mild category. It was reassuring to know that I do not display, even though sometimes I may feel it, any feelings of nervousness or apprehension. On the Verbal Aggressiveness Inventory I ranged from 61 to 68, the Moderate level. However, it was good to know from others that I consider the facts when speaking and hold true to being respectful, considering their opinions and viewpoints. When appraised on the Listening Styles Profile I was across the board rated as a people-oriented listener. It was good to know that my compassion shows through my listening skills in both the formal and informal setting. The surprise was that in the relaxed environment I displayed on the lower end of the mild for anxiety, yet and understandable for me, I was on the upper end of the mild level.
The insight gained this week is to continue to show compassion and respect for the person or persons you are speaking and listening to, regardless of the situation. As an effective communicator, I need to be confident, clear, and well developed in my communication skills so that my message is received in the manner intended while also building relationships with my listeners.
I had a couple of surprises for the communication assessment. I like the fact that you were able to be comfortable speaking in a public situation. That was extremely scary for me a couple of years ago, but I am more comfortable speaking in front of a group of parents.
ReplyDeleteI wish I shared your level of confidence in speakng in public. I really get nervous when speaking in front of people. I remember when I was getting my undergraduated degree we had to do individual presentation and how I would worried about the presentation all day and be so nervous when I got up in front of the class to present. Through the assessment this week I know this is something I really need to work on.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing how much we can learn from others. This excerise was a great tool in discovery our personal communication skills. It is importnat that we now learn and grow from the findings.
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