Ways I communicate
In this week’s evaluations about our communication skills, I was a little surprised by how I was rated. The funny thing is that I was surprised by the fact that others rated me almost exactly the same way that I rated myself. The only section where others rated me differently was in communication anxiety. I think there was a lower level of anxiety when others rated me because they really cannot tell how I feel on the inside before speaking in public or to a group. I also think I hide my fears very well. Although it might look like I am calmed and relaxed, my heart beats faster and I get the nervous bladder.
Another thing that surprised me was that others rated me the same as I rated myself in verbal aggressiveness. Many times I don’t think about what I say before I say it. I am eager to get my point across and just say what is on my mind. Also, many of the questions on the survey depended on the environment and the people I am communicating with.
This week I learned a little about myself and, the questions on the survey made me think about the way I speak to others. Through the results I received from the surveys I realized that my listening skills are people oriented, I am very trusting of others, and build emotional relationships which can interfere with proper judgment. Also, through the questions in the surveys, I realized that I need to be more aware of other people’s feelings and viewpoints before I try and reason or attack their point. I feel comfortable speaking in public although it might frighten me at times.
Teaching Cafeteritos 
Hi Stephanie, Thanks for sharing. Your self evaluation being very similar to the evaluation of others is very interesting. On many of my categories my relative and colleague evaluated me the same . Additionally, I didn’t think about how my score differed because others view me differently that I view myself, we know ourselves on the inside which is really hard sometimes for others to evaluate.
Stephanie,
You have brought something to my attention. I could not understand why the two people who evaluated me assumed that I enjoyed speaking in public and speaking out in front of groups. After reading your post, I guess I hide my fears and nervousness pretty well too! Whenever I am recommended by someone to speak in public, I try to make sure that I prepare myself. When I prepare myself, others enjoy my discussions and assume that I indeed enjoy being the center of attention. Thanks for sharing.
Latasha
Stephanie,
The people who evaluated me rated me almost exactly the same as I rated myself. I get very nervous when speaking in groups, so I try my best to avoid speaking at all! My dad has never seen me speak in a small group setting such as a meeting, but I think he rated me the way he did because he knows I am shy and quiet. I wish I could hide my nervousness like you and Latasha! Any advice? I get sweaty palms, trembling voice and start talking fast, and I even shake in fear.
Ashley,
I think the best advice for that is too be well prepared and just practice. I think the more you speak in group settings the better you will become and the easier it will be for you. Thanks for your comment.