SportingPulse Homepage for Bendigo Umpires Association

Effective Communication

1. Keep Calm
	The ability to remain cool in stressful situations communicates to others
	a sense of control and maturity. Never rush things and become flustered.
	Think clearly, prioritise options and decide the most appropriate action.

2. Treat Players with Respect
	Umpires earn respect. Treat players in a manner you would like to be treated.
	Never talk down to or patronise a player or official. Do not use the term, "I'm
	the umpire, what I say goes."

3. Use Positive Body Language.
	Use positive body language, be interested, smile and make eye contact. Never
	intrude into a player's personal space. Don't point your finger or be aggressive.
	Be confident with your signals and sell the decision.

4. Listen Attentively
	Communication is a two way process. Participate actively, be attentive and
	acknowledge or respond to the players words or feelings. A question or comment
	by a player in a rational, mature manner requires a positive answer.

5. Communiating Decisions
	Competent Umpires communicate their decisions effectively and confidently.
	Players appreciate Umpires who are strong and concise, they have a lot
	more confidence in Umpires when they know and understand what is happening.

6. Do not Embarrass Players.
	Never embarrass or belittle a player or official. Work at not being the centre
	of attention.

7. Penalise Actions
	At times you will have to caution a player. When communicating this focus your
	comments on the action not the players character or personality.


8. Selectively Ignore Comments
	Not every remark requires a response. Some are made as a natural expression
	of frustration. Ignore the remark at the time and follow up at a later stage if
	deemed necessary. This is very important if the player is angry.

9. Avoid Sarcasm
	Sarcasm is a barrier to effective communicaton. It serves only to hurt the feelings
	or reduce the self esteem of others. It is un-professional and has no place in
	Umpiring

10. Do Not Try to Have the Last Word.
	You will not change a Player's mind, your answer should be brief and direct
	and provided in a calm and respectful manner. Let it go after that.