Week 5, Blog 4, Web lecture

In the web lecture, Democracy and Dialogue, mindful dialogue caught my attention. it goes beyond an individual commitment to dialogue to embrace the notion of "thinking together" in innovative and creative ways. This is key when trying to effectively communicate with others in the workplace. I know at my work and even at home its best to come up with ideas/solutions together rather than just demanding. it really makes a difference if you respectively and maturely come together and bring your ideas to the table.

Week 5, Blog 3, Chapter 11

While looking at phatic communication in chapter 11, I noticed that I probably use it a couple times a day. It's really mindless, pointless conversations with others and make it appear that you are interested in them and what they're doing. Sometimes small talk seems necessary but really doesn't get far in depth. At school and work I tend to do this the most. If I see a colleague walk down in the hallway or we have time to spare before class, I will start these conversations up with them. I know it might be beneficial to just not say anything at all or to just make the conversations more meaningful, but its a habit to say "whats new" when you see a peer or have nothing to say. I will try to definitely work on using more mindful communication in the future.

Week 5, Blog 2, Chapter 10

In chapter 10, Organizational Alignment, competitive strategy is crucial when wanting long term success in a business. They are statements/words that companies use in order to make customers believe that their products are better over their competitors. Some company slogans that stick out to me are McDonalds, “I’m lovin’ it,” and Subway, “eat fresh.” Its certain sayings that these business’ use that stick in my head and that I choose to use over other brands. These are communicating strategies.

Week 5, Blog 1, Chapter 9

In chapter 9, Communicating Leadership, the author talks about habits of character. It means when someone is a leader, they are genuine and sincere about it. Instead of being flashy and having shameless self-promotion, they are inspiring and are important to the company. I feel that people are born leaders, not made. I think the characteristics of a leader are something that comes from within. Personally, I feel that I am a leader and always have been. I have always liked to take charge and make sure everyone in my group whether it be at school, work, or personal life, is satisfied and comfortable with the decisions being discussed.

Week 4, Blog 4, Web Lecture

When thinking about the “virtual or real communication” section of the web lecture, I feel that either one works. Although you might not see the person physically, you’re still communicating with them through telephone, email, ect. If anything, I think that communication technologies actually strengthens group and team relationships. If you instant message and keep updated with that person throughout the day with different types of communication, I think it builds communication between the individuals and is efficient

Week 4, Blog 3, Web Lecture

In the web lecture Technology and Teams Dr. Coopman talks about pervasive communication environment. We live in a world that gives us access to anything anytime basically. We have the ability to contact individuals and groups through technology communication. I think this is really important especially when working with groups. You want to be able to send and receive messages to an individual through email, text, or telephones if you can’t verbally speak to the person face to face. At my work, when my boss needs to get a hold of me, she emails me first before even calling because it is faster and more efficient. I usually have tasks for the day and by listing them out in a spreadsheet, I can print out the directions. I can’t imagine working now without this kind of communication.

Week 4, Blog 2, Chapter 8

In chapter 8, page 235-236, I looked at team based organizations. I learned about the importance of team work. I think we have always been taught in school growing up that teamwork is something that we should excel in. Having a positive group with team members that are hard workers will benefit a team within the organization. I have not had a job yet where I work with a team, but I have done so many times in school. Being a communication major, there are many group projects throughout the semester. I find that it works out best when there is communication, trust, and respect between each other.