Communication is a process that exists virtually in all spheres of one’s life. People talk to each other and exchange information at home, at work, and anywhere else. In academic and professional worlds, however, verbal and non-verbal interactions with others have a particular significance to one’s performance and success. While in an informal setting a person can express his/her thoughts in many different ways, work situations require more effort and skills from an individual than other environments. The course of effective communication can assist future specialists in acquiring an assertive tone. This experience will also allow me to improve on such personal strengths as the ability to listen attentively and develop new qualities to become an inquisitive and engaged professional.
My field of study, history, often relies on the researcher’s ability to collect and interpret data from a variety of sources. Thus, communication becomes the basis for one’s studies – it allows one to connect with competent persons and find data that might not have been accessed before. In this case, a researcher or a scholar has to possess communicative skills. For example, the knowledge acquired as a result of this course will give me an ability to ask proper questions to find the facts for which I am searching. Open-ended inquiries, as opposed to the close-ended ones, present people with an opportunity to look at information from different sides and encourage deep conversations (Joyce et al., 2013). In the field of history, such dialogues can uncover new evidence or reveal unique concepts and points of view.
Currently, one of my main strengths in communication lies in the ability to listen and not just hear. This skill, while being seemingly passive, is crucial during a conversation. In many instances, people rely on non-verbal cues more than on spoken words (Joyce et al., 2013). A person’s tone, facial expressions, and gestures can completely change the meaning of words. Therefore, my ability to listen to voice changes and signs of emotional shifts makes me an attentive and engaged interlocutor. Moreover, it reduces the possibility of my communications ending in a misunderstanding. Furthermore, I try not to interrupt people and give them time to present their opinion. Such behaviors contribute to productive discussions as well.
Nevertheless, it is still vital for me to develop other helpful skills such as inquisitiveness and assertiveness. First of all, I need to learn how to ask the correct questions. A conversation that is not supported by all participants can be ineffective as it will not give the sides an idea of what is and is not appealing to others. By asking questions, persons indicate their interest in topics and help each other guide the dialogue in the right direction. The skill of using open-ended questions grants one an ability to learn and connect with others. Second, a correct tone allows people to present themselves as confident, transparent, and intelligent (Joyce et al., 2013). Here, an assertive person shows that he/she is open to a respectful and involved discussion. Personally, I believe that this skill is essential in all spheres of life.
Effective communication is a set of important traits and abilities that can help people connect with each other and gain valuable knowledge and support. It can be useful in all areas of life, from interactions with one’s friends to professional situations. Such skills as engaged listening and inquisitive questioning can assist a person in finding new ideas and encouraging others to see events from a different angle. In the field of history, communication is a foundation of interpreting older facts and data.
Reference
Joyce, D., Alexander, M., Berger, M., Quow-Thomason, N., Sizemore, D., & Harrel, L. (2013). Information literacy E1: Find your purpose. Phoenix, AZ: Grand Canyon University.