When I think of someone who I know that is a an effective
communicator I think of my new friend, Ed. Ed spent his professional years as a
electrical engineer for General Motors. He is retired and he now spends his
time freelancing as a bit of a computer geek. He runs a spreadsheet company
that specializes in spreadsheets and software.
As an educator in Ohio I always utilized Apple products
within my work forum as well as within my home. When I recently took the new position
in Arizona I was handed a Hewlett Packard PC. My first thought was oh my!
Over these past several weeks, I have found myself calling
Ed and asking him simple questions related to my computer. When I ask a
question, he instinctively relays the posed question back to me, so that there
is not any confusion with his interpretation of my question. As he knows I am
not PC savvy. His explanations and directions are clear and concise. He always
is patient; he waits to determine if I have followed through with his
directions. Then he waits again to see if I am successful. If not he tries
again to help me come up with a solution. Recently my son had to create a
physics science fair project. Ed came to the rescue. He and Avery worked at his
home on the project for five nights. While Ed’s wife prepared dinner, Ed and
Avery created their pendulum project. When I asked Avery to describe to me, what
made Ed such an excellent teacher, he stated,” Ed describes and gives really
great directions. He explains complicated concepts in a way that makes them easier
to understand. “ Ed is a competent communicator for several reasons; he is
patient, he listens to the questions or concerns, takes his time to answer the
questions. I too believe Ed can speak to almost anyone. He adjusts his
interactions and communication to meet the needs of the other person. Keep in
mind he spent a week working with my son who is in his junior year of high
school. Ed, too has a great wit, and works hard to make others feel comfortable
and at ease.
When I think of a person who is an effective communicator I
think of my new friend, Ed.
Hi Millie,
ReplyDeleteEd sounds wonderful. I would love to have someone that knows about computers be able to give directions in a way that I could understand and be someone that can help my children with projects. It is awesome that you met and made friends with Ed.
Luci
Millie,
ReplyDeleteMy first thought was, does Ed make long distance calls to Kansas?! Listening, repeating your questions back to you, and explaining things in terms that you understand are valued communication skills. It says a lot about Ed - not only is he a good communicator but also has a passion for his work and enjoys people. What a blessing that your paths crossed.
Hi Millie,
ReplyDeleteEd sounds like he is a gifted communicator! To make others feel at ease and listen patiently is not something easily found. Thanks for this great example!
Kristi
Millie,
ReplyDeleteEd sounds like a great friend and communicator. It is good to know that he thinks about questions before he gives an answer. That shows that he loves helping out and being sincere about it. It is also good to know that he takes his time when he is explaining things and gives you step by step instructions. That is the best way to learn something and it sticks with you.