Being able to effectively communicate with your teachers is critical to your academic success. In fact, according to the majority of people who responded to a Pew Research Center study, communication is the most important skill needed to succeed. Here are a few ways to help you communicate effectively with your teachers.
Address Them Respectfully
When your teachers introduce themselves and let the class know how they’d like to be addressed, take note. If someone goes by Ms., don’t call them Mrs., and vice versa. Only call them by their first name if they explicitly tell you to do so. If you’re not sure what to call them, ask. Addressing your teachers by their preferred title shows that you respect them and their expertise and will pave the way for smoother communication in the future.
Understand Their Preferred Communication Style
Don’t assume your teacher’s preferred style of communication. Instead, ask how they like to communicate. Knowing that your teacher prefers to chat via email, in person, on the phone, or during office hours can help you plan your time effectively and ensure that you communicate with them in the way that works best for them.
Remain Professional
No matter how you communicate, always remain professional in your word choice and tone. Begin email messages with an appropriate salutation, not a casual “Hey.” Refrain from using use slang and profanity, and be succinct. If there is something personal your teacher needs to know, then share it, but they don’t need to know everything about you. Be mindful of their time — don’t overstay your welcome during office hours or send multiple follow-ups if they don’t respond as quickly as you’d like. Being professional is key to effectively communicating with your teachers — and the practice will pay off once you’re in the workplace.
Be Mindful of Timing
Remember, your teachers have lives outside class. Avoid approaching them during busy times, such as right before or after class. They’re not required to monitor their inboxes 24/7, so be thoughtful when you choose to reach out. Plan ahead to avoid asking a question the night before a deadline — you might not get a response in time. When you do have questions, determine a mutually convenient time to connect. This shows respect for their time and allows for a focused, productive conversation.
Show Your Appreciation
Teachers are busy people. Remember, your class likely isn’t the only one they teach, and they’re doing their best to support all their students. Show appreciation by acknowledging their efforts and letting them know you value their support and guidance. A simple thank you can go a long way in building a positive relationship.
Effective communication with teachers is a skill that will benefit you throughout your academic journey and beyond. By being respectful, clear, and proactive, you can build strong relationships with your teachers and create a supportive learning environment. Good communication is a two-way street, so always be open to listening and learning.
ON TOPIC
Sterling Fox Cerda, Luiseño, is from Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside, Calif. He is working toward an associate degree, studying mechatronics at Chaffey College in San Bernardino County on the Kizh and Tongva ancestral lands.
In today’s digital world, it is important for students to be comfortable with face-to-face communication. What have you done to increase your confidence when it comes to speaking with people in person?
Face-to-face communication is an important skill that continues to be harder and harder to master. Within myself, I have become more confident through a few tactics that I have learned in my educational journey.
- I am not afraid to mess up. I have seen others make mistakes and it doesn't make me hate them — it shows me that they’re human and I understand that it's OK.
- I didn’t jump straight into big crowds and high detail communication. It started by being social with my small friend group. I realized how nice it is to hear other people’s stories and I wanted more.
- I talk a lot. I send voice messages when I can't or don't want to type; I make phone calls, and I use Xbox Live or PlayStation party chats. Just talking — even to small groups of people you’re close with — is enough to count as practice.
- I can talk for myself. I make jokes and I laugh at them — it's OK if nobody else does. I know what I need to do to communicate, and I ensure that it is done. If I can speak for myself, then eventually I will be comfortable speaking for others.
What tips do you have for preparing for and conducting difficult or important conversations?
Difficult conversations are something that we all face sooner or later. I have had my fair share of experiences with them, and this is what I found to be helpful.
- Understand that a difficult conversation may not be challenging just for you. It’s likely that neither party wants to have the conversation, but it is necessary.
- If it's something that's important and the other person respects you, they should understand — and remember that it works both ways. Don't take it personally; sometimes it's just business.
- Approach the conversation with confidence and have any necessary resources prepared. You may find it easier to have the conversation in a quiet spot. Also, try to meet as soon as possible so that you don’t dread it all day.
- Honesty is the best policy. Things are easier when you are honest.
