| So what might I do
with this communication information? Individual reflection on your
listening, inquiry and advocacy, and constructive feedback skills
is a good place to start. Informally you can assess your communication
strengths and deficits just by asking yourself, “What communication
strategies have I used that have been most effective when I am interfacing
with people, either personally or professionally?” With self-evaluation
most of us can accurately identify what communication skills are
our strengths and which ones we need to improve.
Beyond individual reflection there are many assessments available
with which you can informally assess your communication strengths
and weaknesses. The TTI DISC Behavior Profile8 allows you to see
how your communication styles positively impact how you work with
others and areas where you might get yourself in trouble while communicating
with others.
When we recognize our communication weaknesses, we should take
steps to improve these communication areas, whether through formal
or informal methods. Discussing with our team how we communicate
and our preferred methods of being communicated to is important.
Proactive communication can reduce a great number of team conflicts
down the road. The following examples provide additional suggestions
that individuals might use to improve their communication skills.
- Practice, practice, practice—most people take communication
for granted. Effective communication takes a conscious effort
at continual enhancement and refinement. Get your team members
to help you identify your strengths and deficits in communicating.
- Take a formal assessment, such as the TTI DISC Behavior Profile,
to evaluate your behaviors and communication within a professional
setting.
- Determine if you want to make changes in your communication
style. You may wish to speak with your professor about opportunities
available to you through your department, college, or university.
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