Effective Communication: Giving and Receiving Feedback

Clearly, communicating ideas is an art form.

At Wye River Upper School, we help our students enhance this skill through our Interpersonal Communication course. Our students learn the significance of positive body language, listening to understand versus waiting to respond, and the difference between good communication and effective communication. This summer, I had the opportunity to review our Interpersonal Communication curriculum and found many fantastic tips that can be used by anyone who is interested in becoming a better communicator.

Giving Feedback

Tips for Good, Better, Best Communication:

Good: Share information that is specific, practical, and positive.
Better: Understand the needs, wishes, and values of the person you give feedback to.
Best: Most importantly, be empathetic!

Receiving Feedback

Listen, Process, and Reflect:

Listen more than you speak.
Be mindful of your feelings while receiving critiques from someone else.
Remember, this feedback is an opinion; you can take it or leave it.

At Wye River Upper School, we encourage our students to practice effective communication skills both in person and via email with our staff.

Through these interactions, we aim to address any questions or concerns that students may have, and also help them develop better skills for giving and receiving feedback. We want our school to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone, where making mistakes is considered a natural part of the learning process. Our students act as each other’s accountability partners and cheerleaders, creating a supportive and collaborative environment for all.

I encourage you to apply some of the tips outlined above to strengthen your communication skills.

Good luck!

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