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University of Maryland, College Park

Pearl Diving Assignment 1

Ayushi Patel

Communication for Project Managers: ENCE614

Dr. Shana Webster-Trotman

September 23, 2023

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Introduction:
As an Electronics and Communication engineer, my academic journey has been marked
by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to exploring diverse fields. Throughout
my undergraduate years, I actively honed my managerial skills by volunteering and orchestrating
a multitude of events. However, it was during my internship as a Public Relations Event
Coordinator, that I found myself drawn to the intricate dynamics of public relations and effective
communication. This experience ignited a deep-seated curiosity within me, propelling me to
seek further understanding in the realm of communication. The reason behind enrolling in this
course is clear: to refine my communication skills, a pivotal asset in my role as a project
manager, where effective communication with both the team and stakeholders is paramount.
This essay serves as a testament to the transformation in my perspective, shedding light on the
valuable lessons gleaned from course readings, class discussions, and an exploration of enhanced
networking capabilities, all underscored by insights derived from the DISC personality
assessment.

Concepts from Reading:

Throughout my journey in the Communication course, I have encountered several valuable
concepts and techniques that have significantly impacted my ability to communicate effectively.
Three concepts, in particular, have stood out to me, each offering unique insights and practical
applications.
1. Managing Speech Anxiety: The concept of managing speech anxiety, explored in the
textbook "A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking," has been a revelation for me. As
someone who has grappled with pre-performance anxiety, this topic hit close to home. I
vividly recall an experience from my undergraduate days when I was tasked with
introducing the literature club to a sizable audience. Despite meticulous preparation and a
well-crafted script, I faltered on stage. My heart raced, my body trembled, and my self-
confidence plummeted. Reading about the symptoms of speech anxiety in the textbook, I
realized that my struggles were not unique, which piqued my interest in finding
solutions. Techniques such as visualization, meditation, and stress-control breathing, as
presented in the book, became instrumental in my journey to combat this anxiety. In the
initial classes of the Communication course, I would shy away from participating in
discussions or presentations, but now I am gradually breaking out of my comfort zone,
thanks to these anxiety-management techniques
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2. Non-Verbal Communication: The concept of non-verbal communication has transformed

my understanding of effective communication. This concept highlights the crucial role of
body language and the limited impact of words alone in conveying messages. Learning
about non-verbal communication, especially from the insights provided by Allan Pease,
has been eye-opening. It is astonishing to realize the numerical facts associated with
body language and how much it influences our interactions. This concept has made me
more attuned to the subtle cues people emit through their gestures, expressions, and
posture. Understanding the nuances of non-verbal communication has not only enriched
my ability to decipher the unsaid but has also improved my own non-verbal
communication skills, enabling me to convey messages more effectively.
3. Analyzing the audience: In the realm of effective communication, one of the most
enlightening concepts I encountered was the art of audience analysis, a topic thoroughly
explored in the 'Pocket Guide to Public Speaking.' This chapter, akin to discovering a
superpower, illuminated the crucial nuances of capturing an audience. It emphasized the
pivotal role of the first few minutes of a speech, where gaining the audience's attention is
not merely a choice but a necessity. The chapter profoundly stressed the importance of
understanding the audience's sentiments and ensuring that their feelings are not hurt
during the discourse. This principle instantly reminded me of the quote by Dr. Maya
Angelou, that was discussed in the first class: “I've learned that people will forget what
you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made
them feel.” This powerful insight became the cornerstone of my approach to
communication.
I can relate this concept directly to a specific activity conducted in our class. During a
comprehensive group exercise, each group was assigned the DISC personality type of
our 'boss.' With this information in hand, we were tasked with crafting an email tailored
precisely to this personality type. This exercise was not just a theoretical endeavor; it was
a practical application of the audience analysis principle. Understanding our boss's
specific personality traits meant we could precisely adapt our communication style to
align with their preferences. This experience served as a clear example of audience
analysis in action. Knowing exactly how our boss, our audience, would prefer to receive
information made the entire communication process considerably more straightforward.
It illuminated the power of tailoring messages to suit the individual nuances of the
audience, reinforcing the importance of understanding and adapting to diverse
communication styles.
Personally, this technique has become an integral part of my daily conversations, both in
professional and personal settings. I find myself naturally analyzing the personalities and
preferences of those I interact with, enabling me to tailor my communication style
accordingly. It is not about manipulation; rather, it's about genuine connection. By
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approaching conversations with empathy and understanding, I have noticed a significant

shift in the dynamics of my interactions. People respond more positively, feeling heard
and valued, which ultimately fosters trust and rapport.
In essence, the art of audience analysis has become my guiding light in the labyrinth of
communication. It has transformed the way I navigate conversations, enabling me to
create meaningful connections and convey messages with impact. As I continue to apply
this technique, I am constantly reminded of the profound impact it has on the quality of
communication and the depth of relationships, reaffirming the timeless truth that
understanding others is the key to being truly understood.
Incorporating these concepts and techniques into my communication practices has been
transformative. I now approach public speaking and interpersonal communication with greater
confidence and a more nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play. Overcoming speech
anxiety has empowered me to step outside my comfort zone and actively participate in class
discussions and presentations. My enhanced grasp of non-verbal communication has sharpened
my ability to interpret and convey messages accurately. Additionally, the insights gained from
understanding the delivery of a speech have elevated the impact of my presentations and
speeches. The lessons from audience analysis underscore that communication is about being
heard and understood. These insights have not only enhanced my communication skills but also
enriched my interpersonal relationships. Each interaction now becomes an opportunity to
connect authentically and meaningfully, amplifying the impact of my messages in both
academic and professional settings. As I continue to apply these learnings, I am confident they
will remain invaluable tools, enabling me to build connections and convey ideas with profound
impact.

Networking:
As I actively engage in the process of networking within the ENC614 course, I'm
reminded of a poignant quote by Herminia Ibarra: "Networking is a lot like nutrition and fitness:
we know what to do, the hard part is making it a top priority." This quote encapsulates the
essence of networking. Just as we understand the significance of maintaining a balanced diet and
regular exercise for our physical well-being, we recognize the importance of networking for our
professional growth. However, the true challenge lies in prioritizing networking in our busy
lives. In the context of my networking efforts, this quote resonates deeply. It serves as a
reminder that while we may understand the value of building professional connections, it is often
competing with various other demands on our time and attention. Yet, just as we prioritize our
health, it's imperative to prioritize networking as a vital aspect of personal and professional
development.

I initiated a connection request to fellow students, regardless of the outcome, the gesture of
reaching out underscores my eagerness to establish a professional connection and engage in
meaningful discourse. I successfully connected with the following individuals:
1. Professor Shana Webster-Trotman (Still pending)
2. Gouri Thampi (TA)
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3. Emmanuel Forakis
4. Cierra Hargrove
5. Ilanit Sedek
6. Anna Torres
7. Rajashree Hazarika
8. Christopher Neal
9. Jacob Frazee
10. Jason Chin
11. Yixuen Moh
12. Mitta Hage
13. Alden Fitts
LinkedIn is undoubtedly a powerful tool for professional networking, but my efforts to grow
my network extend beyond this platform. I've taken the initiative to participate in various on-
campus events and activities to bolster my networking abilities and foster connections outside
the digital realm.
One noteworthy event I attended is the "International Coffee Hour" organized by the
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). This gathering provides an exceptional
opportunity to interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Engaging in conversations
with students from various countries not only broadens my horizons but also enhances my
confidence and cross-cultural communication skills. Moreover, I've become an active member of
a club on campus that organizes technical and cultural events. Involvement in this club has
allowed me to contribute to event planning, scheduling, and budgeting. These experiences are
invaluable as they provide practical exposure to skills that can be directly applied in the
professional world. It also enables me to network with fellow students who share a passion for
organizing and executing events effectively.
My networking journey within the course has been a multifaceted approach, encompassing
both digital and in-person interactions. While LinkedIn serves as a pivotal platform for
connecting with Professor Shana Webster-Trotman and fellow students, my participation in on-
campus events and club activities has enriched my networking abilities and interpersonal skills.

DISC Personality Assessment:

After completing the DISC personality assessment, I found my results to be quite
interesting and enlightening. According to the assessment, my personality type is characterized
by 2% Dominance, 31% Influence, 35% Steadiness, and 32% Compliance. This combination
suggests that I have a relatively balanced personality, with a significant emphasis on Influence
and Steadiness.
I generally agree with the assessment results because they align with my self-perception
and how I interact with others in both personal and professional settings. The assessment's
description of my personality as tenacious, analytical, and objective resonates with my natural
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inclination to approach challenges with a logical and methodical mindset. I do tend to prefer
pursuing a well-defined course of action rather than making decisions based on emotions.
One of the most surprising insights I gleaned from the assessment is the relatively low
Dominance score (2%). While I expected to have a lower Dominance score, I was surprised to
see it this low. This suggests that I may not be as assertive or competitive as some other
personality types, which could impact my leadership style and decision-making processes. It is
an area I may want to work on to become a more assertive and confident leader.
Understanding my personality type, which leans toward Steadiness and Compliance, can
significantly enhance my effectiveness as a communicator and project manager. Here is how:
1. Communication Steadiness can be particularly helpful when dealing with team members
who need support and encouragement. On the flip side, my Compliance aspect makes
me detail-oriented and analytical, which can aid in clear and precise communication
when discussing project specifications or data-driven decisions.
2. Conflict Resolution: My Steadiness trait also implies that I am conflict-averse and value
harmony in the team. This awareness can help me approach conflicts constructively,
seeking compromise and solutions that maintain a peaceful working atmosphere.
3. Project Management: Being clear about my Compliance aspect means I am well-suited
for handling complex technical assignments and ensuring that projects adhere to
established standards and protocols. This attention to detail can prevent costly errors
and delays in project execution.
A significant insight into my personality has been gained from completing the DISC
personality assessment, which has confirmed some of my self-perceptions while also revealing
areas for possible growth. By using my strengths and addressing areas where I may need
improvement, I can become a more successful communicator and project manager. This
understanding of my personality type, with a focus on Steadiness and Compliance, gives me the
knowledge I need to do this. It's a valuable tool for personal and professional development.

Conflict Management Styles Assessment:

Reflecting on my conflict management style and its impact on effective communication
has been an eye-opening journey. The Conflict Management Styles Assessment identified my
primary style as "Accommodating," often associated with the qualities of a teddy bear. This style
underscores my inclination to prioritize relationships above personal goals and my readiness to
compromise to maintain these connections. I have always strived to be liked by others and
instinctively shied away from conflicts, fearing that addressing them could jeopardize the
relationships I cherish. The assessment's description of my conflict style couldn't have been more
accurate, as it mirrored my own self-perceptions. My accommodating nature has proven to be a
double-edged sword when it comes to effective communication. On one hand, it has often played
a pivotal role in resolving conflicts and maintaining harmony. A recent example of this occurred
when my partner and I found ourselves embroiled in a dispute with the couple we share an
apartment with. The issue revolved around the use of our common spaces, a situation that, in
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hindsight, could have been diffused through compromise and accommodation. True to my
nature, I initiated communication with each party, and through patient dialogue, we eventually
reached a resolution. However, what was meant to be a harmonious resolution took an
unexpected turn within my own relationship. My accommodating disposition led my partner to
perceive my actions as compromising his interests and making decisions on his behalf,
undermining his sense of agency in the process. This unexpected outcome illuminated a critical
aspect of my accommodating style—while it may facilitate conflict resolution externally, it can
inadvertently hinder effective communication within my own interpersonal relationships.
To improve my conflict resolution skills and minimize potential communication
obstacles, I have chosen to embrace a technique highlighted in our readings: "Audience
analysis." This technique emphasizes the need to thoroughly understand the individuals involved
in a conflict. By delving into their beliefs, values, and unique perspectives, I can tailor my
communication to resonate with their specific outlooks. The beauty of this approach lies in its
alignment with my accommodating style. It equips me to ensure that all parties involved feel
genuinely heard and valued during conflict resolution, fostering an environment of trust and
collaboration. Rather than resorting to assertiveness or imposing my own views, I can harness
the insights gleaned from analyzing my audience to forge a deeper understanding and build
bridges of trust. The technique offers a balanced approach that leverages my accommodating
nature's strength while mitigating its potential pitfalls. This endeavor reflects my commitment to
personal growth and the aspiration to become a more adept communicator and mediator in both
my personal and professional life.

Jung Personality Assessment:

Completing the Yung personality assessment was a thought-provoking experience that
provided valuable insights into my personality type. According to the assessment, I fall into the
category of "Introvert-iNtuitive-Thinker-Perceiver (INTP)." This classification describes
individuals who are introverted, inclined towards abstract and imaginative thinking, make
decisions based on logic, and prefer a flexible and spontaneous lifestyle. The report further
delves into the INTP personality, highlighting characteristics such as imagination, originality,
perceptiveness, creativity, and a strong penchant for analyzing and understanding the world.
Upon reviewing the assessment results, I found a striking alignment between the INTP
personality type and my own self-perception. The description of INTPs as intellectually
thoughtful, innovative, and ingenious resonated deeply with how I view myself. I have often
been drawn to exploring complex ideas, theorizing, and engaging in deep analytical thinking.
This inclination toward intellectual pursuits and a rich internal world of ideas feels like an
integral part of who I am. However, it's also noted that INTPs can sometimes find the external
world less interesting, which I've occasionally observed in my own life when engrossed in deep
thought or problem-solving.
In considering the similarity between my INTP Jung personality type and the DISC
assessment results, I can identify some common threads. While the DISC assessment primarily
focused on social and behavioral traits, there are overlaps with the Jung personality type. For
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example, my primary DISC style of Accommodating, characterized by a preference for

harmonious relationships and adaptability, does have some resonance with the INTP description
of being perceptive and open to exploring new ideas. Both profiles suggest a willingness to adapt
and engage with others on different levels. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the DISC
assessment and the Jung personality assessment approach personality from different angles.
DISC focuses on observable behavior and interpersonal dynamics, while the Jung personality
assessment delves into deeper cognitive and psychological preferences. Therefore, while there
are points of similarity, they capture different aspects of my personality. The assessment
reaffirms my belief in the value of exploring complex ideas and challenging myself
intellectually. When comparing this personality type with the DISC assessment results, I see
complementary traits that paint a more comprehensive picture of my personality, highlighting
both my interpersonal and cognitive preferences. These assessments collectively contribute to a
deeper understanding of who I am and how I interact with the world around me.

Conclusion:
This journey of exploration has taken me through a diverse landscape of topics, spanning,
self-awareness, communication, and networking. Each question and answer has contributed to
my personal and professional growth, weaving together a tapestry of insights.
Effective Communication Concepts: Venturing into the realm of communication, I not only
learned to manage speech anxiety and decipher non-verbal cues but also grasped the profound
impact of audience analysis. Recognizing the power of tailoring messages to specific
individuals, considering their preferences and inclinations, has become a linchpin in my
communication strategy. This deeper understanding has not only bolstered my confidence but
also enhanced my effectiveness as a communicator. It has enabled me to connect authentically
with various audiences, ensuring that my messages resonate profoundly. Networking and Self-
growth: Networking, both on LinkedIn and in-person, emerged as a central theme. The quote by
Herminia Ibarra emphasized the challenge of prioritizing networking. Engaging in on-campus
events and clubs enriched my self-growth journey.
DISC Personality Assessment: The DISC Personality assessment provided a foundation for
understanding my communication style as "Accommodating." This awareness has been crucial in
recognizing my tendencies and adapting my approach to communication and conflict resolution.
Yung Personality Assessment: The Yung Personality assessment unveiled my personality as
"INTP," aligning with my self-perception as imaginative and analytical. It reinforced the
complexity of human personalities.
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Works Cited

O’Hair, Dan, and Hannah Rubenstein and Rob Stewart. A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking.

Bedford/St. Martin’s, 5th edition

Pachter, Barbara, and Denise Cowie. The Essentials of Business Etiquette: How to Greet, Eat,

and Tweet Your Way to Success. McGraw-Hill Education, 2013. Print

Allan Pease. Body Language: How to read others’ thought by their gesture.

Matt Abrahams. The importance of knowing your audience and speaking context.

Gallo, Carmine. Five Stars the Communication Secrets to Get from Good to Great.

Pachter, Barbara, and Denise Cowie. The Essentials of Business Etiquette: How to Greet, Eat,

and Tweet Your Way to Success. McGraw-Hill Education.

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Results:

1. DISC Personality Test

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2. JUNG Personality type

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3. Conflict Management Style :

Please CIRCLE ONE response that best describes you. Be honest, this survey is designed to help you
learn about your conflict management style. There are no right or wrong answers!

Name - Ayushi A Patel Date – 09/20/2023

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Source: Reginald (Reg) Adkins, Ph.D., Elemental Truths.

http://elementaltruths.blogspot.com/2006/11/conflictmanagement-quiz.html

Scoring the Conflict Management Styles Assessment

As stated, the 15 statements correspond to the five conflict management styles. To find your most
preferred style, total the points for each style. The style with the highest score indicates your most
commonly used strategy. The one with the lowest score indicates your least preferred strategy.
However, all styles have pros and cons, so it’s important that you can use the most appropriate style for
each conflict situation.

Style Corresponding Statements: Total:

Collaborating (questions 1, 5, 7): 9

Competing: (questions 4, 9, 12): 6

Avoiding: (questions 6, 10, 15): 11

Accommodating: (questions 3, 11, 14): 12

Compromising: (questions 2, 8, 13) 11

My preferred conflict management style is: Accommodating

The conflict management style I would like to work on is: Collaborating