Communicating in a Culturally Diverse Environment

Even though we communicate naturally and unconsciously daily it’s necessary that we adjust the way we communicate considering the audience or situation of our environment. When communicating, things that I take into consideration is the persons age, religion, sexual orientation, and experiences. In the following examples I will provide three strategies I would use when communicating with preschoolers, peers, and professionally:

• With preschoolers, I connect by giving my undivided attention, using simple ways of communicating, and a mild tone. I do not use over explanation when answering their questions and I know that I must actively listen and pay attention to their body language because sometimes they may display unspoken emotions. To maintain positive communication I provide them with rules without saying the word “NO”. For example, instead of saying “No running.” I would say “We walk.” which will avoid any arguments and help to be more clear.
• Amongst my peers I am able to let my hair down, relax, show my emotions, not focus on my tone, nonverbal behavior, and I do not have to use language that is so to say always appropriate. We can tell it how it is when we’re with one another and we don’t have to worry about stepping on anyone’s toes or hurting anyone’s feelings. I am also comfortable enough to talk about my experiences, situations, or things that I worry about knowing that they would not just say what they think would be polite or what I want to hear but they would tell me what they think is best.
• Professionally, I communicate by maintaining eye contact to show that I’m comfortable, good posture to show confidence, positive body language, and I speak clearly with thorough explanations and knowledge of whatever subject that I am discussing. When using my active listening skills I allow enough time for the communicator to express themselves and not be so quick to speak.

 Adjusting the way I communicate improves effectiveness because this omits confusion which can lead to misinterpretations or misunderstandings and also provides respect for others.