Effective Communication for School Administrators
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School administrators have the challenge of running a school, dealing with student-related issues and maintaining a satisfied staff. Effective communication is essential for a school administrator to be successful in his job of creating and maintaining a healthy learning environment. Putting verbal and nonverbal communication skills into practice can greatly improve a school's organizational flow, which in turn provides secure boundaries for students and positive reinforcement for staff.
Use Verbal Communication
Use verbal communication appropriately with students and staff. During schoolwide gatherings, the school administrator should set a clear vision for the student body. Much like a father or mother, the administrator should encourage students with good news about their achievements and hard work, address areas that need improvement and finish with encouraging words that set the student body up to win. Staff meetings should carry a similar feel, but be a bit more direct with an open forum for feedback from staff. Allow school staff to voice their opinions, concerns and ideas. Feedback gives the staff a voice.
Use Nonverbal Communication
Ensure that your verbal and nonverbal communication compliment one another. Your actions, policies and body language should all properly represent the messages that have been communicated orally. When a school administrator says she is going to do something and fails to do so, a strong message is sent to students, staff and parents alike. The nonverbal message contradicts the verbal message, causing a breakdown in communication and leaving people to form their own opinions. Stay consistent to avoid appearing confused or hypocritical.
Implement Feedback Outlets
Implement feedback outlets throughout the school year that give students, staff and parents the ability to rate the school's performance and satisfaction. Create a questionnaire for the three different groups (students, staff and parents). Fill the questionnaire with statements that can be rated from 1 to 10, with 1 being strongly disagree and 10 being strongly agree. Have each group fill out the form and return it to the administration. Tally up the scores and look for consistencies in areas of improvement and achievement. Address those issues and tighten up the the school's policies and procedures.
Joey Papa lives in the Tampa Bay area, and has four years of experience as a professional copywriter. His years of experience and a bachelor's degree in communications from Oral Roberts University, provide him with creativity, technique and a comprehensive viewpoint to complete a wide array of writing styles.