Effective Communication Practices Research Articles

Sensemaking in organizational storytelling: From linear storytelling to antenarrative

Storytelling can be considered good professional practice for organizational communication as it resonates with stakeholder audiences and contributes to the process of sensemaking. This paper challenges two key assumptions that underpin storytelling in an organizational context. The first assumption is that clarity is the goal of storytelling and therefore linear modes of organizational storytelling should be used to reduce complexity to achieve clarity of understanding of organizational messages. The second assumption is that organizational storytelling consists only of the stories an organization tells about itself, and multiple understandings or ‘mixed messages’ are ‘noise’. This paper will argue that the storytelling concept antenarrative – or narrative fragments that can form emergent storytelling episodes – will expand the parameters of sensemaking in organizational storytelling. Furthermore, listening to emergent storytelling episodes can provide insights into prospective sensemaking, which has implications for organizational storytelling practices in our digital age. Putting antenarrative alongside concepts such as ‘listening’ and ‘engagement’ helps to improve organizational storytelling to work toward more effective organizational communication practice and respond to the challenges of complexity in storytelling, entanglements of the porous organization, and digital disruption.

Empowering Tourism Communication for Sustainable Village Development

The research addresses the critical issue of enhancing tourism communication to foster sustainable village development. The primary objective is to empower local communities by improving their communication strategies, thereby boosting tourism and ensuring sustainable growth. The study employs a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data to comprehensively understand the current communication practices and their impact on tourism. Data were collected through surveys, interviews, and field observations in selected villages known for their tourism potential. The findings reveal significant gaps in the existing communication strategies, highlighting the need for more effective and targeted approaches. The research concludes that by adopting improved communication methods, villages can attract more tourists, enhance their economic stability, and promote sustainable development. The study provides actionable recommendations for local governments and community leaders to implement more effective tourism communication practices, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of rural areas.

Development of a regression model for effective labour management of an IT project

The object of the study is human resource management in IT projects, where the diversity of cultural characteristics and communication practices can affect the efficiency of task performance. The main problem addressed in this study is to identify the key factors that affect the effectiveness of human resource management in IT projects and to identify problem areas that need to be adjusted to improve the productivity and quality of teamwork. The study findings showed that the effectiveness of human resource management in IT projects largely depends on four main aggregate indicators: communication and interaction, cultural factors, leadership and management, and technical and professional skills. In particular, the model found that improved communication and interaction, as well as leadership and management, have the greatest positive impact on overall performance. Instead, cultural differences can create barriers that negatively affect teamwork performance. The findings are explained by the fact that effective communication and interaction are fundamental to coordinating teamwork, ensuring clarity of tasks, and timely information exchange. Leadership and management determine team motivation, conflict resolution strategies, and the overall direction of activities. The negative impact of cultural factors is explained by language barriers, differences in work approaches, and other cultural characteristics that can make it difficult to understand and cooperate. These findings can be used in practice in IT projects where multicultural teams work. They provide valuable guidance for leaders and managers on which aspects of management to focus on to improve team effectiveness. In particular, effective communication practices should be implemented, leadership skills and strategic planning should be developed, and cultural sensitivity should be taken into account, as well as training and development of technical and professional skills of team members. This will help overcome cultural barriers, improve collaboration, and increase the overall productivity of IT projects.

Factors Influencing Employee Job Commitment in the Public Sector: A Case Study of Temeke Municipal Council, Tanzania

The study aims to assess the factors influencing employee Job commitment Case study Temeke Municipal Council, Tanzania. The main objective was to examine factors which influence employees Job commitment at work place in public sector Temeke Municipal. The specific objectives were to examine the relationship between communication practices within public sector, to examine various leadership styles within public sector organizations, to analyse the association between job satisfaction levels among public sector employees, to investigate the role of employee engagement initiatives in influencing job commitment within public sector organization. This research was guided by Social Exchange Theory and Agency Theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design and a quantitative approach. Data was collected structured questionnaires from a purposive sample of 50 and descriptively analyzed. The study found that both intrinsic and extrinsic factors significantly influence employee job commitment at Temeke Council. Key findings revealed that effective communication practices, transformational leadership styles, high job satisfaction, and robust employee engagement initiatives are positively correlated with increased job commitment. Employees who experienced clear and frequent communication, recognized and supportive leadership and opportunities for professional growth reported higher levels of engagement and loyalty to the organization. The study concludes that retaining and enhancing employee’s commitment relies on deliberate efforts of the management to improve job satisfaction, quality selection of leadership styles, communication practices as well as employee’s engagement. The study recommends the management of Temeke Municipal Council to invest in leadership development programs to enhance managers' skills in communication, conflict resolution, and team building. Effective leadership is crucial for fostering a supportive and motivating work environment.

Towards a theory of linguistic curiosity: applying linguistic frameworks to lingcomm and scicomm

Abstract Linguistics communication (lingcomm) is uniquely placed as a branch of science communication (scicomm), as lingcomm practitioners can reflexively draw on our own discipline of linguistics to further our understanding of effective communication practices with broader audiences. In this article we cut across various sub-disciplines of linguistics to look at syntactic, semantic, and discourse practices that make for compelling communication. We refer to this as the way a text incites curiosity, or the value of “curiosity”, by analogy with “grammaticality” and “felicity” as linguistic concepts. We look at an example text with high curiosity in scicomm, before highlighting key linguistic features of curiosity. We also show how we implement these in our own lingcomm work, and discuss the implications for effective lingcomm. We conclude with potential avenues for exploring curiosity in scicomm and lingcomm, and the importance of linguists contributing to public understanding of language.

Aspects of effective communication (european experience): digital, informational, and sociolinguistic dimensions

Introduction: The modern era of digital technologies and globalization has brought about significant transformations in communication methods. This article explores how digital, informational, and sociolinguistic dimensions influence the processes of effective communication, focusing particularly on European experiences.Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of digital transformation, information transparency, linguistic diversity, and cultural adaptation on effective communication in modern European society. The research aims to uncover both the benefits and challenges posed by these factors in the context of communication processes.Methods: This research employed a theoretical approach, synthesizing a wide range of literature and conducting psychological and sociolinguistic analyses. Comparative methods were used to assess different strategies of communication in European contexts, while particular attention was paid to understanding how digitalization and sociolinguistic factors interact.Results: The findings suggest that digitalization enhances accessibility and the speed of communication but introduces challenges, such as the digital divide and data protection issues. Information transparency and accessibility have been identified as crucial in building trust and ensuring the effective exchange of information. Moreover, sociolinguistic factors, especially cultural and language adaptation, have proven essential for effective intercultural communication in Europe.Conclusions: The study concludes that successful communication strategies must incorporate digital, informational, and sociolinguistic aspects, particularly in multilingual and culturally diverse contexts. Awareness and adaptation to cultural norms and linguistic nuances are vital for creating more effective communication practices in both international and local interactions. Practical recommendations include focusing on cultural sensitivity and data transparency to further enhance communication processes

Influence of Organizational Security Learning Practices on Insider Security Threats in SoCs in Kenya

Insider threats have consistently been identified as key threats to State-owned Corporations and governments (SoCs). Research has shown that huge amounts of resources go towards safeguarding organizations’ assets and information systems from external threats in total disregard of potential threats from malicious and compromised insiders. Recent studies indicate that insider threats are on the rise and have cost the Kenyan economy $ 36Million USD. In addition, investigations show that these threats are increasing in scale, scope, and sophistication. The general objective of the study was to investigate on the organizational factors influencing insider security threats in State-owned Corporations in Kenya. Specifically, the study evaluated the influence of organizational security policies, organizational security learning practices and organizational communication practices on insider security threats in State-owned Corporations in Kenya. The study was anchored on the CISA Insider Threats Risk Score Model, deterrence theory, social learning theory and the communication privacy management theory. The study adopted descriptive correlational research design. The target population was 187 State-owned Corporations in Kenya. A census sampling design was used targeting the Security managers or their equivalent in SoCs. The researcher utilized a self-administered questionnaire as the data collection method. Data was analysed through quantitative techniques using the SPSS. The study established that organizational security policies have significant influence on insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. The study also established that organizational security learning practices have significant influence on insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. In addition, the study revealed that organizational communication practices have significant influence on insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. The study also deduced that the combined influence of organizational security policies, learning practices and communication practices (organizational factors) significantly influence insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. The study recommends that SoCs consider conducting a comprehensive review of their existing security policies, ensuring clarity on the severity of consequences for insider threats. Further, the study recommends that SoCs work on strengthening their learning policies to emphasize the importance of observational learning, role modeling, and positive reinforcement in the context of security awareness to address insider security threats. Additionally, the study recommends that SoCs provide training programs that emphasize effective communication practices surrounding privacy management.

MODERN COMMUNICATIVE PRACTICES IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE CIVILIZATION DIMENSION

The article examines the effectiveness of communication practices in modern international relations against the background of civilizational features of the interacting parties. The authors found out the actual state and nature of communications at the international level between the East and the West, they discovered the causes of conflict, and formed a conclusion on this basis. The researchers answered the question - how to reach a new level of effectiveness of communication practices in international relations and how to achieve congruent communications in the intra-societal system? The purpose of the article is to clarify modern effective communication practices taking into account the inter-civilization factor in international relations. The relevance of the article lies in the need to search for new approaches in international communications based on the synergy of communications to solve global problems of our time, create safe living conditions for the world community. As a result of the study, the authors revealed the ineffectiveness of modern communication practices. This statement is true for both international communications and communications in the internal environment of political, intra-societal systems. The subjects of international relations often simply do not take into account the civilizational differences of their partners, therefore they cannot come to an agreement with them on important issues of life, first of all. Among these differences, we should highlight: cultural, ethnic and religious characteristics of communicants - representatives of the East and the West. Modern international conflicts arising on the basis of civilizational and cultural confrontations between the East and the West push us to develop a new paradigm of communication practices. These practices should be based on congruent interaction of communicants, on the elimination of their civilizational and cultural differences as the cause of unsuccessful communications. Politicians are now forced to take into account not only the political, economic and power resources of the interacting parties, but also cultural, religious and ethnic characteristics. The focus of researchers should be on issues that include not only minimizing disagreements and balancing interests between states, but also searching for the broadest possible agenda and identifying common interests at the global and regional levels.

Tax avoidance news, investor behavior, and stock market performance

This study investigates the relationship between tax avoidance news, investor behavior, and stock market performance in the Chinese financial context. Leveraging a comprehensive dataset spanning 2020–2023, we employ regression analyses and robustness tests to examine the impact of tax avoidance news on stock market performance. This quantitative empirical study addresses a significant gap in our understanding of the financial implications of tax avoidance news in China, highlighting its substantial influence on investor decisions and market dynamics. Key findings indicate that tax avoidance news leads to increased stock price volatility, moderated by investor trading behavior. This research contributes to the literature on taxation and financial markets by offering practical insights for policymakers, investors, and corporate entities. By understanding these dynamics, stakeholders can better navigate the complexities of financial markets and enhance corporate transparency and governance. The findings underscore the importance of effective communication and ethical practices in mitigating adverse market reactions, potentially influencing regulatory reforms and investment strategies.

Komunikasi Interpersonal Dan Budaya Kerja Dalam Meningkatkan Hubungan Dengan Pegawai Di Klinik Pelangi Bunda Medika

Internal communication can be understood as the foundation and building blocks of an organizational culture. The existence of an organizational culture that is firmly adhered to by employees will greatly support the process of achieving the company's main goals (Agustini & Purnaningsih, 2018). This research was conducted using a qualitative approach, which is descriptive in nature and Human Relations Theory. The data collection method was carried out using in-depth interviews and observation methods. (Isniyunisyafna, & Isfiantie S, 2020). For employees, the role of effective internal communication in improving good and sustainable relationships is very important. Because good internal communication can strengthen social relationships, increase collaboration, solve problems, develop leadership skills.This research explores the urgency of internal communication in building a strong organizational culture, strengthening social relationships, and improving company performance. Carried out using a qualitative approach and Human Relations Theory, with in-depth interview and observation methods.The importance of internal communication in building a strong organizational culture and supporting the achievement of company goals. The role of internal communications in improving social relationships, collaboration, and leadership skills. A qualitative approach and Human Relations Theory are used to understand the role of internal communication in organizational culture. Data collection methods through in-depth interviews and observation.Analyze the urgency and role of internal communication in building a strong organizational culture. Investigate the impact of internal communications on social relationships, collaboration, and leadership skills. Enrich understanding of the importance of internal communication in the context of organizational culture. Provides insight into effective internal communication practices in improving company performance. Provides a framework for the development of more effective internal communications strategies.

Membangun Ketahanan Organisasional: Peran Kepemimpinan dan Komunikasi dalam Menghadapi Perubahan Tinjauan Sistematic Literature Review

In an era, full of rapid and unpredictable change, organizational resilience is the key to survival and development. An organization's ability to adapt to change and overcome challenges is an important factor in achieving long-term success. An organization's ability to adapt and develop amidst change is the main key to achieving organizational resilience. In this context, leadership and communication play a crucial role. This research conducted a systematic review of the literature to explore the role of leadership and communication in building organizational resilience amidst change. This review identifies various factors of effective leadership and communication strategies and practices in dealing with change, and discusses the challenges and obstacles that may be encountered. Effective leadership and communication are critical to building organizational resilience amidst change. By implementing the right strategies and practices, organizations can improve their ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment.

Peran Komunikasi Efektif Kepala Sekolah Dalam Meningkatkan Motivasi Kerja Guru

The headmaster's communication style can cause misinterpretation and ambiguity in delivering messages to teachers. This type of study is qualitative research with a descriptive method. The subjects of this study were the headmaster and ten teachers of SMP Negeri 2 Sijunjung. The instrument of this study was an interview sheet, collecting data through interviews. The data collected were analyzed using a thematic approach. The results of the study findings show that the communication carried out by the headmaster to motivate teachers includes the ability to deliver messages clearly, an inclusive leadership style and focuses on community building, the role of the headmaster as a facilitator in the decision-making process, routine communication, support in overcoming problems faced by teachers, and the application of effective communication practices such as transparency, empathetic approach, building interpersonal relationships, and providing constructive feedback to teachers. In conclusion, the headmaster's communication is essential in increasing teachers' work motivation to create a positive work environment and improve the quality of education.

NWS Regional and Local Climate Services: Past 20 Years, Present, and Future

Abstract The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) has been providing national, regional, and local climate services for more than 20 years. The NWS climate services building blocks consist of service provision infrastructure, partnership and outreach, discovery of user needs and requirements, and service delivery at national, regional, local, and tribal levels. To improve services, the NWS climate services program accelerated user engagement through customer surveys, workshops, and collaborations. Since 2002, the annual Climate Prediction Applications Science Workshop has developed a community of climate information producers and users through sharing of climate science applications, decision support tools, and effective communication practices. Although NWS had been producing operational climate monitoring and prediction products for several decades, the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017 (U.S. Public Law 115-25) specifically mandated that NWS deliver services at subseasonal to seasonal time scales, including periods from two weeks to two years. Looking ahead, both the Department of Commerce (DOC) and NOAA have included climate services in their new 2022–26 strategic plans, including DOC’s goal to address the climate crisis through mitigation, adaptation, and resilience efforts and NOAA’s initiatives to build a Climate Ready Nation (CRN). The NWS Climate Services Program supports these strategic goals and CRN initiatives through integrating climate information into Impact-based Decision Support Services, the most critical element for implementation of the NWS strategy for a Weather-Ready Nation. This includes application of state-of-the-art climate monitoring and prediction products to the most societally relevant impacts while empowering regional and local climate delivery of enhanced services.

Maximizing public service through a humanistic communication approach

Optimal public service by an institution is closely tied to effective communication practices. However, at the West Aceh Police, the desire to maximize public services is impeded by communication problems between police officers and the public during service provision. This issue has prompted community service activities aimed at enhancing public services by improving communication skills, particularly through a humanistic approach. The training involved 30 members of the West Aceh Police and utilized various methods such as lectures, discussions, basic communication techniques training, and public speaking exercises. The objective was to identify communication shortcomings in service provision, evaluate them based on participants' experiences, and rectify them to enhance performance. Results revealed that participants frequently encountered communication failures with the public and had yet to fully implement a humanistic communication approach. However, the training significantly improved participants' ability to analyze and reflect on communication failures, empowering them to devise their own solutions.

The Role of Gesture in Multimodal Communication

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to examine the role of gesture in multimodal communication.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the role of gesture in multimodal communication. Preliminary empirical review revealed that that gestures play a crucial role in multimodal communication, serving as more than mere supplements to verbal discourse. Through theoretical frameworks like social semiotics and empirical research across various contexts, it was found that gestures enhance comprehension, memory retention, and social interactions. The findings emphasized the importance of recognizing and leveraging gestures in communication, urging educators, communicators, and policymakers to develop strategies that harness the full potential of multimodal communication for fostering understanding and connection in diverse settings.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Cognitive Load theory, Symbolic Interactionism and Social Semiotics model may be used to anchor future studies on the role of gestures in multimodal communication. The study recommended integrating gesture theories within existing communication frameworks, enriching theoretical discourse and offering new perspectives on multimodal communication dynamics. Practically, it advocated for incorporating gesture-based interventions in education and professional settings to enhance communication effectiveness and build rapport. At the policy level, it called for the integration of multimodal communication strategies into educational curricula and workplace training programs to support inclusive and effective communication practices. The study also suggested further research into the cognitive mechanisms of gesture production and comprehension, alongside the development of technology-mediated communication tools and guidelines for inclusive communication practices. Additionally, it proposed interdisciplinary collaborations to advance understanding of multimodal communication processes and drive innovation in the field.

School Teachers' Perceptions of Adolescent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination: A Systematic Review.

School nurses are uniquely positioned to educate students about immunizations, including human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, but schools are often without a nurse for different reasons. In lieu of nurses, teachers who closely interact with students and are traditionally well-trusted by parents may be able to communicate about HPV vaccination, alleviating parental vaccine hesitancy. This systematic review explores school teachers' perspectives on adolescent HPV vaccination and factors influencing their willingness to make vaccine recommendations. We searched three databases with appropriate medical subject headings and keywords to identify relevant studies. We reviewed fifteen studies and provided an extensive summary and a comparison of the results across the studies. Teachers had low to moderate levels of HPV knowledge with low self-efficacy to counsel parents about the HPV vaccine and expressed concerns about the vaccine condoning adolescent sexual activity, vaccine side effects, and parental disapproval. Nonetheless, some teachers showed interest in learning about vaccine effectiveness in preventing HPV-associated cancers and wanted guidance on vaccine communication with parents, viewing schools as adequate venues to promote and deliver HPV vaccines. Schools should consider educating teachers on HPV and HPV vaccination, with a focus on effective vaccine communication practices to increase adolescent HPV vaccine uptake.

Patient engagement in research: lessons learned from CAPTURE ALS, a longitudinal observational ALS study

Objective There are compelling ethical and practical reasons for patient engagement in research (PEIR), however, evidence for best practices remains limited. We investigated PEIR as implemented in CAPTURE ALS, a longitudinal observational study, from study inception through the first 2.5 years of operations. Methods Data were drawn from three engagement initiatives: a community-led letter-writing campaign; consultation with patient and caregiver focus groups; and a study-embedded ‘participant partner advisory council’ (PPAC). Data were derived retrospectively from study documentation. We used the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) participation spectrum as a framework for investigation. Results 2401 letters from community members to the Canadian government affirmed study objectives and advocated for funding. Feedback from focus group consultation influenced study design and supported the study’s data-sharing plan. PPAC collaboration shaped all aspects of the study. Contributions included: co-creation of governance documents, input on study protocols and public-facing communication, and development of engagement webinars for study participants and feedback surveys. Effective communication practices fostered collaboration and helped avoid tokenistic engagement. CAPTURE ALS encompassed all IAP2 participation levels. Conclusions CAPTURE ALS was shaped by meaningful engagement initiatives over the course of the study. Lessons learned included: begin early and embed PEIR within research; build relationships and foster mutual learning; be flexible, open to adaptation, and seek diversity. Primary challenges included funding for early implementation, time needed to maintain relationships, and attrition due to disease progression. All IAP2 participation levels contributed to meaningful PEIR. ‘Empowerment’ was demonstrated through advocacy.

The Role of Communication and Employee Engagement in Promoting Inclusion in the Workplace: A Case Study in the Creative Industry

This research examines the role of communication and employee engagement in promoting inclusion in the workplace, with a specific focus on the creative industry. The study utilizes a case study approach to gain insights into the strategies and practices employed by organizations in fostering an inclusive work environment. The research objectives are twofold: first, to explore the communication channels and mechanisms utilized by organizations to promote inclusion, and second, to investigate the impact of employee engagement on fostering a culture of inclusion. A mixed-methods approach is employed, combining qualitative interviews with employees and management, as well as quantitative surveys to gather comprehensive data. The findings of the study highlight the crucial role of communication in promoting inclusion. Organizations within the creative industry employ diverse communication channels, such as town hall meetings, intranet platforms, and diversity training programs, to facilitate open dialogue and exchange of ideas. Effective communication practices contribute to enhanced employee understanding, collaboration, and mutual respect, thereby fostering an inclusive work environment. Furthermore, the study reveals that employee engagement plays a pivotal role in promoting inclusion. Engaged employees exhibit higher levels of commitment, motivation, and willingness to embrace diversity. They actively contribute to the creation of an inclusive culture by participating in diversity initiatives, providing feedback, and advocating for inclusive practices. The implications of this research that organizations in the creative industry should prioritize effective communication strategies and employee engagement to foster inclusion. By creating an inclusive work environment, organizations can harness the benefits of diversity, such as increased creativity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.

The Role of Interpersonal Communication in Enhancing Teamwork Effectiveness in the Digital Era

This study explores the role of interpersonal communication in enhancing team work effectiveness in the digital era, focusing on how effective communication practices can strengthen mutual understanding, coordination, and collaboration within teams. Utilizing a qualitative method and literature review, this research collected and analyzed data from various contemporary sources to comprehend the dynamics of interpersonal communication within the context of technology-supported team work. The findings indicate that interpersonal communication characterized by openness, empathy, and support not only strengthens relationships among team members and builds trust but also reduces misunderstandings and conflicts. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of training in interpersonal communication skills to bolster team cooperation and expedite the collaboration process by leveraging appropriate digital communication tools. These findings underscore the significance of effective interpersonal communication strategies and the integration of digital communication technology to create a productive and harmonious work environment, as well as to improve job satisfaction, motivation, and employee retention in the digital era.

Experiences of breastfeeding peer counseling among women with low incomes in the US: a qualitative evaluation

BackgroundPerson-centered breastfeeding counseling is a key but often overlooked aspect of high-quality services. We explored women’s experiences of the Breastfeeding Heritage and Pride™ program, an evidence-based breastfeeding peer counseling program serving women with low incomes in the United States.MethodsThis study was conducted through an equitable community-clinical-academic partnership and guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) quality of care framework for maternal and newborn health, which highlights three domains of positive experiences of care: effective communication; respect and dignity; and emotional support. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of women participating in the Breastfeeding Heritage and Pride™ program. Women were asked to describe their experiences with the program including examples of when good quality counseling was or was not provided. Each interview was conducted in English or Spanish, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Once themes were generated, they were organized according to the three care experience domains in the WHO quality of care framework.ResultsTwenty-eight in-depth interviews were conducted with a racially/ethnically and socio-economically diverse sample of women. Three themes described effective communication practices of peer counselors: tailoring communication to meet women’s individual needs; offering comprehensive and honest information about infant feeding; and being timely, proactive, and responsive in all communications across the maternity care continuum. Two themes captured why women felt respected. First, peer counselors were respectful in their interactions with women; they were courteous, patient, and non-judgmental and respected women’s infant feeding decisions. Second, peer counselors showed genuine interest in the well-being of women and their families, beyond breastfeeding. The key theme related to emotional support explored ways in which peer counselors offered encouragement to women, namely by affirming women’s efforts to breastfeed and by providing reassurance that alleviated their worries about breastfeeding. These positive experiences of counseling were appreciated by women.ConclusionsWomen described having and valuing positive experiences in their interactions with peer counselors. Efforts to expand access to high-quality, person-centered breastfeeding counseling should, as part of quality assurance, include women’s feedback on their experiences of these services.