I find it interesting that people have been communicating with each for centuries and yet, we still have problems mis-communicating or being "misunderstood". In reading chapter one, I was stuck be how so much of the information seemed to be "common sense" or widely accepted in practice and yet each scenario had the potential to go awry.
One of the things that stood out to me in the chapter, was that it was geared towards adminstrator and advised on some of the "pitfalls". Being a new principal last year, I can really relate so some of the stories... about establishing that new relationship with staff members and parents/students. I spent a lot of time thinking over how I wanted to establish me relationship with them and how to communicate that I am approachable, working for a common goal with them and will work hard for the school/team/students. On one side I wanted to demonstrate my competency yet incorporate my personality (bring in some humor), be approachable and establish the "right" relationship from the start....not as easy as it seems :)
I also liked how the chapter talked about communicating in emails, newsletters, and formal/informal communication. I know I am cautious when communicating with parents by email, because you are not always sure how they are "interpreting" what you are trying to say. That doesn't even include the grammatical manner in which we communicate. I much prefer meeting with parents especially if there is a problem, yet this is not always possible, so some of the info. for consideration is very helpful.
My favorite information was the "Frame It" and re-framing - its about the perspective and how we choose to view a situation and how we choose to move forward. That is not to say we are going to "sugar coat" everything, but rather acknowledge the situation and determine how to move forward. I love how it pointed out that framing must be used with integrity!!
Mrs. Principal Platt you are a great principal. It must be tough walking that fine line of establishing relationships and at the same time setting expectations. I think of you when I read this book because it does provide advice to administrators. :) BTW I am following your blog because I am in a group of only 3 and I needed a fourth. ;)
ReplyDeleteI'm pretty sure I commented a week ago, but obviously don't see it posted, so I'm going to again. I love how you used "interpreting" when talking about email to parents. Email is wonderful on the plus side, but it can also be on someone's delta side. It can be an effective tool to communicating with some, but it can also be taken the wrong way by others. You just never know so that is why if there is a problem where parents need to be contacted, a face-to-face meeting is probably the best practice. Thank you for pointing out the email situation as that is a preference that I like, but it's a slippery slope.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Christy on the importance of communicating face to face because emails can be perceived differently by different people. It is all in the perception. Thanks for your great words!
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