Taking Four C’s to the Next Level

In a recent Four C’s training, Student Affairs staff members said the Four C’s were “common sense,” “simple” and “inherent in work serving students.” This is great to hear and means that Student Affairs staff relate to and value communication, connection, collaboration and creation. However, this might also mean that we are easily complacent with our integration of the Four C’s. For those who are advanced or practiced at the Four C’s, how do you take it to the next level? How do you go from what feels natural or easy, to applying the Four C’s intentionally and purposefully?

While some C’s are easy to incorporate into your job, there might be one that is a little more challenging. It might be because of the office in which you work, the job you do or even your dominant True Color. Figure out which of your Four C’s needs the most work. Take your Four C’s to the next level by committing yourself to practice your weakest C for a week.

If you are an old pro at the Four C’s, use that strength to mentor another staff member. Help new staff members recognize the Four C’s in action and give them ideas on how to incorporate the Four C’s in their work. Bring the Four C’s to life in your staff and committee meetings. Add the Four C’s to the agenda and explore how each C is being utilized.

Look for opportunities to practice the Four C’s outside your office walls. The Student Affairs Holiday Luncheon, December 10, is a great opportunity to communicate and connect with your Student Affairs colleagues. Challenge yourself to meet someone new or sit with someone from another department. Get your staff together and Adopt-a-Family for the holidays for a chance to create a special gift for a family in need and to collaborate on a fun service project.

Send us an email with your ideas on how to take the Four C’s to the next level. The Education Team would love to hear them.

Melissa Hernandez
Assistant Director, Counseling Services

Four C's Training Schedule for STAFF (SD 415)

• Training Schedule for FALL 2013         COMPLETED
• Training Schedule for SPRING 2014    PENDING

Any questions or comments? Please send us an email at VPSA@utsa.edu.