UNC Charlotte Housing | Living Agreement - Interactive Workbook

Communication Tips

Talking to your roommate(s) about your personal likes and dislikes can eliminate confusion and reduce conflict. Initiating a Living Agreement conversation on the first day can help prevent misunderstandings caused by people's assumptions. Be open - ask, listen, and discuss. Remember that communication is a two-way process.

~ Communicate your expectations. Be clear and honest. State them early and often.

~ Be assertive, yet respectful.

~ Consider others' opinions and viewpoints.

~ Know that you must give so you can get. Be willing to compromise.

~ Keep the conversation going. Discuss events and changes as they happen. One meeting doesn't solve all problems. Keep talking it out.

~ Assume the best. Mistakes happen and feelings do get hurt. Don't assume the other person did it on purpose. Chill out. Talk it out. Work it out.

Communication Do's

~ Share your concerns BEFORE things get out of hand. Explain respectfully what is bothering you and help your roommate(s) understand why.

~ Be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem.

~ Be genuine and straightforward.

~ Listen carefully. Try to see things from the other person's viewpoint.

~ Be sensitive to different backgrounds and perspectives.

~ Chill out. If you are getting angry, remove yourself from the situation until you are calm.

~ Talk it out. Don't rely on notes and messages to communicate.

~ Know what is important to you and what you are willing to give up or compromise.

~ Work it out. Seek assistance from your Resident Advisor when things cannot be worked out between both/all of you.

Communication Dont's

~ Don't wait until things build up inside of you and/or get out of hand.

~ Don't be antagonistic, arbitrary, or rude.

~ Don't use profanity or make fun of your roommate(s).

~ Don't interrupt when others are talking.

~ Don't assume the worst. Most people are not "out to get you."

~ Don't spread gossip or rumors about your roommate(s). If there is a problem, talk it out with your roommate(s).

~ Don't IM or use online diaries to complain to, gripe about, or talk about your roommate(s).