Writing for Business Success/Understanding your audience/Tasks
- Read the scenario presented here:
Your friend Jason believes he is an excellent listener and reader. Jason does not always maintain eye contact with others when in conversation; he finds it more comfortable to look other places. When he does not understand something, he is quick to restate the message in his own words. After paraphrasing, he asks if he understood the message correctly. He frequently interrupts others for control. Jason believes he is excellent at multi-tasking. He is usually found reading with the computer and television on nearby. When Jason reads, he often keeps his eyes engaged on the page. Every once in a while, he focuses on his internal monologue; he often narrates his life as if he is the hero in an epic movie. He asks appropriate clarifying questions that communicate interest and gained insights.
- Jason is your friend and wants to know your advice. Based on the description of Jason, what strategies for active listening and reading would you suggest for him? Make notes on your ideas in your learning journal and then develop your best advice to Jason in written form. Consider: How might your personal relationship with Jason help or hinder you in offering advice? Tips: Identify Jason’s strengths and challenges. (use bullet points or 150 words or less)
- To self-check your strategy suggestions, review Chapter 3.5 in your text and the Keele University videos that best address the issues described.
