Discuss your communication plan, you want to hold the most productive meeting possible. You know that, in general, women look for equality among other team members when speaking. Men tend to interrupt and speak more frequently during meetings, taking up more time and space. There are many communication differences between men and women. Because your staff includes 6 men and 6 women, gender communication differences are important. With your colleagues, discuss ways to ensure that everyone at the meeting has the opportunity to fully communicate their ideas. Discuss the following:
1 nonverbal difference between males and females
1 verbal difference between males and females.
How and why you can use this knowledge to communicate to the female and male audiences in the organization that you selected
Non-verbal Difference Between Males and Females
One nonverbal difference between males and females is the use of eye contact. Males tend to make more direct eye contact than females, especially in professional settings. This can be perceived as more assertive and confident, and it can also be used to signal interest and engagement. Females, on the other hand, are more likely to make indirect eye contact, or to look down or away when speaking. This can be perceived as more submissive or deferential, and it can also be used to signal discomfort or shyness.
Verbal Difference Between Males and Females
One verbal difference between males and females is the use of language. Males tend to use more assertive and direct language, while females are more likely to use more tentative and indirect language. Males are also more likely to interrupt and speak more frequently during meetings. This can be perceived as more dominant and authoritative, and it can also be used to assert one’s ideas and opinions. Females, on the other hand, are more likely to wait their turn to speak and to avoid interrupting others. This can be perceived as more polite and respectful, and it can also be used to signal that one is listening to and considering the ideas of others.
Using Knowledge of Gender Communication Differences to Communicate More Effectively
There are a few things that I can do to use my knowledge of gender communication differences to communicate more effectively to both female and male audiences in the organization that I selected:
Making Sure Everyone Has the Opportunity to Communicate Fully
Here are some specific things that I can do to make sure that everyone at the meeting has the opportunity to fully communicate their ideas:
Conclusion
By being aware of the different communication styles of male and female colleagues, and by taking steps to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to communicate fully, I can create a more productive and inclusive meeting environment.