Effective Communication Skills

1298 Words3 Pages

Introduction Oftentimes, misguided individuals believe that knowledge and the willingness to share this knowledge with others is the key to successful leadership. However, what is often overlooked is the value of possessing effective communication skills to build relationships among one’s peers and leaders. For without the possession of effective communication skills one may find it difficult to not only succeed but also advance in the work place. Specifically in the field of education, where leaders are faced daily with challenging tasks, commitments, and deadlines, having effective communication skills is detrimental in creating a positive school climate in which teachers and staff members optimize student academic achievement. Article Analysis There is a direct correlation between leadership and communication. Based on a comprehensive study involving six schools and 208 participants, Halawah (2005) reports a school’s climate is positively associated with the principal’s ability to effectively communicate. These principals are respected for their ability to lead by example, to communicate clearly, to demonstrate caring for all, and to follow through with reprimands and punishments for faculty, staff, and students. In all six schools, the principal’s actions and words were aligned with the schools’ mission and vision in an effort to increase student achievement. Lastly, this reports points out that all principals have open communication with staff and faculty members for the purpose of building relationships to assign leadership opportunities and delegate tasks. Due to a leader’s inability to single-handedly complete every task, honor every commitment, and meet every deadline, building relationships are critical to... ... middle of paper ... ...nsure that the school climate is one that optimizes student academic achievement. References Adams, S. (2013). How to communicate effectively at work. Forbes. Retrieved from http://www.forbes.com/sites/susanadams/2013/11/19/how-to-communicate-effectively- at-work-3/ Halawah, I. (2005). The relationship between effective communication of high school principal and school climate. Education, 126(2), 334-345. Hensley, P. & Burmeister, L. (2008). Leadership connectors: A theoretical construct for building relationships. Educational Leadership and Administration: Teacher and Program Development, v20 125-134. MindTools.com (2013). How good are your communication skills? Speaking, listening, writing, and reading effectively. Mind Tools: Essential skills for an excellent career. Retrieved from http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newCS_99.htm

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