Effective Communication Skills and
Negotiation Strategies

Communicating With Professionals


Your interpersonal communication skills and ability to present yourself well are equally as important as knowing the laws and procedures when advocating for your child.   Make an effort to present yourself as a poised, confident and articulate communicator.

Effective communication is achieved with practice.   It is a combination of specific techniques with attitudes and qualities.   Three important attributes of a good communicator are the ability to:
  • be empathetic
  • be genuine
  • show unconditional positive regard
Non verbal communication techniques are part of the total communication process and can enhance what you say or plan to say.   Consider the following:
  • Are you dressed appropriately so that you feel comfortable with the group you are addressing?
  • Do you maintain eye contact with those whom you are addressing?
  • Do you bring materials with you for reference purposes?
Your facial expression, voice volume, intonation, physical proximity to others and posture create what we call "body language".   Note the followng suggestions:

Physical Proximity: Keep 3 to 5 feet between chairs
  Eliminate barriers between you and whom you are addressing
   
Posture: Use arms and hands for moderate expression
  Lean slightly forward when talking
  Be attentive but relaxed
  Try not to fidget with your hands, squirm or rock in chair
  Do not point finger for emphasis
   
Voice: Speak clearly, but not loudly, with a warm tone
  Speak with a moderate tempo
  Avoid prolonged silences
  Avoid excessively animated speech
  Avoid grammatical errors
  Avoid frequent clearing of the throat
   
Facial Expression: Use direct eye contact
  Reflect warmth and concern
  Relax the mouth and smile occasionally
  Do not stare or fixate on one object or person
  Do not lift eyebrows critically
  Do not purse or bite lips
  Avoid yawning or excessive nodding

Think about what you are feeling and are thinking rather than making judgements about others.   Your perception of others is often about your own feelings or fears.   Perceptions of other's feelings are often inaccurate, especially in highly charged situations.   Use "I" messages, which are less threatening and less critical.   Use paraphrasing techniques to clarify what someone else has said.   This clarification helps reduce the emotion and any conflict involved.
Effective Communication Strategies
Negotiating With Your Child's School
Settling Disagreements
Communicating with the School




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