I selected the accommodation theory, a theoretical framework for intergroup and interpersonal communication. Howard Giles developed this theory in the 1970s to explain the different ways people use to accommodate others when communicating (Elhami, 2020). This theory focuses on three adjustments, convergence, divergence, and maintenance, which individuals use to accommodate others as they interact. While convergence adjustment emphasizes showing similarities between communicators, divergence adjustment highlights and accentuates differences (Elhami, 2020). The concept of maintenance in this theory means that communicating individuals do not consider the characteristics of the people they interact with to make adjustments.
What interests me about the accommodation theory is the way it explains interpersonal and intergroup interaction, both verbal and non-verbal communication. Notably, communication is essential at individual, special, and organizational levels since it facilitates effective conveyance and understanding of messages. Differences between the communicators and the audiences are inevitable due to such factors as cultural and personal values and capabilities. This theory gives different approaches one can use to accommodate others involved in interactions (Elhami, 2020). For instance, communicators can accommodate their audiences by placing them in cultural groups without acknowledging the uniqueness of each individual.
Some of the professional situations I will accommodation theory include when interacting with customers and coworkers to ensure effective communication. Customers have expectations about how employees should say, do, or behave. Equally, workers in a company expect other staff to adhere to organizational culture and code of conduct when interacting. In such situations, I will be adjusting what I say and do to meet audiences, customers, and coworkers, expectations and ensure that they see me as professional. Accommodating the customers and coworkers will guarantee a satisfying interaction between the involved parties.
Reference
Elhami, A. (2020). Communication accommodation theory: A brief review of the literature. Journal of Advances in Education and Philosophy, 04(05), 192-200. Web.