Real-Life Communication
As a newly appointed environmental protection officer, you are surprised
to learn what a major role communication plays in your work. You had heard
about this while you were studying at the academy, but you didn't really understand
the importance until you found yourself working in the field in a community
that was assigned to you.
One day you might be talking to a four-year-old
who is lost in the park. The next day, you might be in a confrontational situation
with a potentially violent lawbreaker, and you must use your communication
skills to prevent the situation from becoming violent.
Then there is
paperwork. There are reports to be filled out, contracts to be developed and
letters to be written.
You are also discovering that as the only EPO
in your community, you are receiving many requests to give speeches or presentations
on environmental issues in your region. Today, you receive a phone call from
the high school. They want you to give a 30-minute presentation at the high
school on any environmental topic that you choose.
There is an overhead
projector available for your use. The teacher suggests that you plan to speak
for 15 minutes then invite questions and answers for the remaining 15 minutes.
Select
an environmental topic that applies to your own community.
Next, plan
your presentation. Making notes on paper, identify the key points that you
want to speak about. The key points are used to jog your memory. You will
not read them while making your presentation. Next, list the resources that
you will take with you to assist you in your presentation.
Practice
your presentation with some friends.