Competent Communicator

From my point of view, in order to be a good communicator you have to be both listener and speaker. I know a lot of good listeners, and a lot of good speakers, but very few hold both in high amounts.

One person, however, is a friend and former co-worker, Lori. Lori has served as a hospice chaplain for many years. She is soft spoken, yet holds her audience's attention, and can command a formidable audience when called for. She is articulate, educated, and well read, so she is able to hold conversations on a variety of topics with confidence and effectiveness. However, she is also familiar with popular culture, issues of diversity, and is therefore able to connect with individuals and families who may come from outside the dominant culture. She is a skilled active listener, demonstrating understanding, attentiveness, and empathy, and does this both verbally and non-verbally.

A good listener listens more than they speak. And  good speaker speaks with economy and deliberateness. Lori is able to balance these actions, and was an excellent role model for my beginning work in hospice.

Thank you Lori!