Michael, Asking questions, and listening, is key. Patience is always a part of communication. What are some other things that you can do determine someone's communication preference?
Dr. Jean Norris
I would ask open ended questions and listen carefully to their replies to gain insight on their preference.
Thelma, Great idea. What are some of the things or clues you listen for?
Dr. Jean Norris
I listen to our attendance reports and reasons why students are missing class. We like to be very proactive when it comes to attendance and retention.
I also listen to all dept managers as to student complaints so we can change the things we can to make it a happier campus.
Thelma, All things that will help students to succeed. As far as their communication preference, what in the students' responses are you listening for to give you insight as to what their preference is?
Dr. Jean Norris
I always ask how they would like to be contacted and I note it so when I need to contact them I contact them the best way
Chelsea,
Great approach! This used in conjunction with understanding their schedule is helpful!
Dr. Jean Norris
I usually go with an email communication first, and if they respond quickly with details then I will continue with that way of communication. If I do not get a response, then I go for the phone and lastly I try texting. I will also base the communication on what age I think or know they are. Once I have established communication then I will check on what they prefer the communication method be.
Heather, All great options for discovering email or phone communication. How do you identify personal preference communication, such as visual, auditory, or kinesthetic?
Dr. Jean Norris
If given the opportunity to speak with them initially, I will simply ask them. Most times people will tell you up front what is their preferred method of communication. If I'm not given that opportunity to find out, I will then email first. This seems to be the least intrusive way of communicating and then if there is no reply I will call and leave a message if they do not answer. Third, I will text. Usually if someone is interested in what my question or discussion is they will respond to one of these. If it is another situation, I will wait instead of continually reaching out via phone, email, or text and just speak to them face to face when the opportunity presents itself.
Wilmer, Those are all good suggestions. It sounds like you really take the time to get to know those you are communicating with. Thank you for sharing!
Dr. Jean Norris
Typically I start with a safe form of communication like email since most people are okay with that. Then based on the response and as I get to know people better they typically will reveal their preference in the way they communicate with you.
Some students respond well to email, other will send you text responses to emails, and other will call you instead. Based on the way they return initial contact it is usually possible to deduce which way they lean towards.
Daniel, Waiting to see how a student responds is a good measurement. I'm curious, do you offer them all of these options, or do they choose their communication preference on their own?
Dr. Jean Norris
I think the great thing about not knowing how everyone prefers to communicate is that you can try different methods. Personally, I like to communicate differently during the day when my kids are up from the evening. I don't mind calls or even emails during the day (I strongly prefer emails). At night when my kids are asleep and I have alone time with my husband I put my phone away. I don't mind a text but I do take offense to getting calls in the evening. Unless its prearranged with someone that works during the day or maybe has kids themselves, in which case I understand not being able to give your full attention during the afternoon to a phone call.
Kelly, Interesting! Knowing your preferences, what are ways you can discover those preferences with your students?
Dr. Jean Norris
When unsure about an individual's communication preferences, I ask, "What is the best way to get in touch with you?" When they tell me, I make a not of it on their file and respect their choices where possible. Some communications are prescribed. i.e. "Admission letters will be mailed." In that case, I make sure I tell the person that there is a standard procedure for a specific communication. That way they know I am not ignoring their preference.
Nancy, Excellent. Do you find your students respond well to your approach? How can you tell?
Dr. Jean Norris
I agree. Cut to the chase. It doesn't hurt to be direct and honest in asking what preference of communication suits the potential student the best.
James, Well said. What if your students prefer a method you don't?
Elizabeth Wheeler
If students prefers a method I'm not in favor with, I trust it will work out for them. If not, then they deserve to make their own mistakes or not make the best decision, and hopefully be a good learning lesson for them at the least.
