Yes, I do find myself communicating on different levels with different groups of people. For instance, when I am around my family and friends, I speak in what the text defines as low language. In other words, I speak in slang and I speak from my point of view on almost every subject. However, when I am around my colleagues and other professionals, I have to be “politically correct”. Basically, I have to research and have documentation to back up my opinions and views. In all groups, I try to practice the Platinum Rule. I try hard to treat others the way I would want to be treated and I feel that it first starts by considering the other persons feelings over your own.
Three strategies I can use to help me communicate more effectively:
1. I can practice the Platinum Rule, “Do to others as they themselves would like to be treated.” This is a rule I try to practice at all times in order to understand the other persons point of view.
2. Another strategy that can help me communicate more effectively is being aware of my assumptions. “Another barrier to intercultural communication is to automatically assume that another person is different from you. It can be just as detrimental to communication to assume someone is different from you as it is to assume that others are similar to you.”(Beebe, Beebe & Redmond, 2011) I think that when I am amongst my family and friends, I assume that we all share the same feelings which we don’t.
3. Lastly, I feel that I can improve my communication by becoming other-oriented. This can help “enhance the quality and effectiveness of your interpersonal communication.” .”(Beebe, Beebe & Redmond, 2011)
