COMM 277 Week 3 Part 3 – Enacting Communication Change

Student Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Part 1: Beginning of the Week

This week, I focused on implementing my plan to assertively say no to my Supervisor. Since I interact with my Supervisor on a daily basis, I anticipated multiple opportunities to practice this strategy. Leading up to these interactions, I prepared mentally to handle situations in which I might be asked to stay late. My approach involves carefully assessing the context: if I sense that I am being asked to work extra hours simply because I typically agree, I will politely decline and suggest that my Supervisor consider asking other team members first. This method allows me to maintain professionalism and respect while firmly establishing my boundaries.

Part 2: Middle of the Week

The discussions took place in my workplace, an Ob-Gyn office. Depending on the request, I communicated either with my Supervisor or my Manager. Regardless of the person, my goal was to clearly express that I could not stay late. By using a calm and respectful tone, I ensured that my refusal was professional and did not come across as confrontational. Being firm in my response was critical so that my Supervisor understood that my answer was definitive and not open to negotiation. This approach helped me assert my boundaries while preserving positive workplace relationships.

Part 3: End of the Week

3A. Topic Selection Reflection

During my conversation with my Supervisor about staying late, I applied several communication assessment techniques. I observed that my tone, word choice, and clarity were crucial in ensuring the message was received as intended. A respectful yet assertive tone allowed me to maintain professionalism while confidently standing my ground. This reflection reinforced the importance of preparation and self-awareness in workplace communication.

3B. Implementation Analysis: Satisfaction

I felt satisfied with my approach because I applied clear communication principles in practice. As McLean (2018) emphasizes, “Sometimes we want our meaning to be crystal clear, and at other times, less so.” In this instance, I needed my refusal to be unmistakable. Ensuring my Supervisor understood my position prevented misunderstandings or attempts to persuade me otherwise. Prior to this experience, I often felt anxious about denying a request from my boss, but successfully asserting myself this week has strengthened my confidence and sense of autonomy.

3C. Implementation Analysis: Dissatisfaction

Although I am generally pleased with the outcome, I recognize potential pitfalls. Inconsistently applying these communication strategies could lead to a regression into old habits. If I fail to maintain this practice, it may undermine the progress I have made in asserting boundaries, which would be disappointing.

3D. Implementation Analysis: Additional Changes

To sustain these improvements, I need to consistently remind myself to assertively say no when necessary. Evaluating the context of each request and focusing on tone and phrasing is essential. As McLean (2018) notes, “It isn’t what you say that counts, but the way you say it,” which resonates strongly with my workplace interactions. By continuing to mentally rehearse and practice these strategies, I can ensure that my responses remain professional, positive, and effective.

Implementation Summary Table

References

McLean, S. (2018). Exploring interpersonal communication, Version 2.0.

COMM 277 Week 3 Part 3 – Enacting Communication Change

Thompson, S. (2021). “Tone of voice” in manager-to-employee communications. Chron. Retrieved from https://work.chron.com/tone-voice-managertoemployee-communications28743.htm