Overview

Effective communication involves an exchange of ideas and emotions that results in a mutual understanding of meaning. Communications can be nonverbal, written, oral or electronic.  Different formats for communication can have an effect on the quality of a shared understanding.  Managers must communicate well with staff to accomplish the goals of the organization.  Leaders are frequently in positions of addressing other organizations or the community at large.  The pitfalls of poor communication are many and can have significant impacts.  Fortunately, as with leadership, communication skills can be learned, practiced and developed.  In our increasingly diverse and globalized world, cultural competence is an essential part of good communication in the health system.

The readings in this module explore the different types of and settings for communications and offer practical advice on acquiring effective communication skills.  The assignment focuses on more formal communications outside the organization and emphasizes the importance of communicating with people from different backgrounds.

Your hypothetical organization has decided to lead a community initiative to solve a specific health problem affecting your community.  Be sure to address the following:

Definition of the issue or problem the coalition is addressing
Community partners you will approach to join the coalition

Resources

Coalition Building I: Starting a Coalition
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/GAOREPORTS-GAO-02-142/pdf/GAOREPORTS-GAO-02-142.pdf
https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/mediation-skills.html
https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/negotiation.html
https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/negotiation2.html