Communication Reflection

In the educational arena there are many times when one, especially someone in a place of leadership like a principal, must have important conversations with staff. The way in which these important conversations are handled is foundational to the stability of relationships and the building culture and climate. The conversations that one must have are referred to in many ways, based upon the experience and need for conversation. These conversations are at times referred to as difficult conversations. These conversations may involve talking about a topic that is sensitive or may involve the actions of an employee. Along with difficult conversations, at times cognitive coaching must be utilized to help guide someone to reflection and looking

At times, the past experiences we have had with people color our current interactions. This thinking also lends itself to the idea that what we believe or think will happen is what will occur. It is important to fully reflect and evaluate upon any situation prior to moving forward with a conversation. This type of reflection allows us to make more rational decisions and fully think through our thoughts and ideas prior to bringing them up.

As I read the various articles that discussed the need for reflection, I thought of the various conversations I have had with people which I initiated where I did not take the time to reflect. Looking back now, I can see that if I would have taken the small amount of time needed to reflect then the conversation could have gone very differently. While I do know that in some of the instances the conversations were necessary to be able to move forward and get work down, the approach could have been different with

Based upon my own experiences and conversations, it always seems that when the person who is beginning the conversation has the opportunity to share his or her thoughts is when emotions tend to raise. People naturally have strong emotions when they are sharing thoughts, ideas or concerns that are personally of concern to them. As I think about my job as a possible future administrator, I must think about how to go into the portion of the conversation, when I am able to share my feelings, without becoming upset or defensive. This can be challenging, but it is critical for the conversation to be able to end in resolution to not become upset or overly