During this course, numerous theories concerning communication were discussed. The theory I
think is the most relevant is media dependency theory. Media dependency theory, introduced
by Sandra Ball-Rokeach, is a systematic approach to the study of the effects of mass media on
audience and of the interactions between media, audiences, and social systems (Lin, 2015). This
theory is the idea that socially we depend on media for information. This theory is relevant
because in today’s society, most of the people get their information from the media. Personally,
I think Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs will be the most relevant theory. This theory covers the
most basic needs from air to food and water. Organizations can dig deeper in Maslow’s
Hierarchy in many ways. For example, employee’s priority is always survival and employers
know that and can use that to their advantage or disadvantage.
This class offered up a plethora of information. Each week something different was brought to
my attention that I wasn’t aware of. Unit 4 was the most beneficial. Specifically, the lecture on
non-verbal communication was valuable to me. I work in a construction atmosphere, most of
the people I work around only speak Spanish. With that being said, non-verbal communication
is valuable in my everyday life. The article states that non-verbal communication includes facial
expressions, tone of voice, and body motions, (Non-verbal Communication, 2017). Often times I
must motion towards a power tool in order for my coworkers to understand what I am talking
about.
The case studies were difficult. I felt like the extra credit case study, dealing with difficult
people, was most applicable to me. The case study was centered around a boss dealing with
two employees that were far out of line. In my line of work, I often deal with difficult people.
When showing up to sites, people complain constantly leaving me in a place to either go with it
or fight back. I often just go with it. This case study is also applicable to me because in my
future work environment I will encounter many difficult people. The check list will come in
handy in my future career.
As a future communicator in an organization, there are many different types of communication
skills I possess that would enhance an organization. First, I am able to adapt my communication
to my audience. Every situation is different, which means different communication styles are
needed per situation. For example, when I am speaking to my construction coworkers, I often
use Spanglish, but when I talk to my parents, I sound a little more redneck. Furthermore, when
I am looking for a job in the future, I plan to meet face to face or over the phone. This
interaction is entirely different than the interaction I have with my friends. The next skill I have is
friendliness. This skill might seem small, but friendliness helps in the long run. It is not always
about what you know, but who you know. This skill is also vitally important because a friendly
work space creates affective communication. My next skill is my confidence. Since I don’t always
appear to be the best on paper, when I meet people, the way I carry myself changes their
perception of who I am. In a work environment, people are more likely to respond to a
confident person rather than a someone who cowers in the corner.
Social media is important inside and outside an organization. Coworkers can use social media in
order to build better relationships which each other. When employees build relationships, this
guarantees better productivity. Not only that, but employees can also communicate with
employers from all over by asking a simple question. Once they ask their question, other
employers can respond with their input. Externally, organizations can build a presence with
whatever audience they want by utilizing social media.
This course offered a value of information. Communication wasn’t my first choice major,
software engineer was. Due to finical reasons, I switched to communication. Since, I have
learned communication is important no matter what field of study you are in. First and for
most, social media is one of the most important tools a company can use. Companies have
saved their organizations through using social media during a crisis. For example, during
Starbucks Internal Crisis, the CEO of Starbucks potentially saved Starbucks image by responding
so quickly through social media. Social media isn’t only a tool for teenagers to use, but
companies also use social media in order to create a bigger empire. This course was different. I
have never had a course that had video quizzes. The video quizzes forced me to participate in
the course, which I appreciated.
