an investigative analysis of the psychological characteristics and job ...

2.3.11 Efficient
Efficiency is defined by Gibson, et al. (1994:41) as the ratio ofoulputs to inputs.
The eEL should be efficient because students and employers rely on him for a certain amount of
oulput. Efficient CELs are able to acquire more work stations for students and place these students
more efficien6y according to their and the employer's needs.
.Efficient management of time and use of available resources are also important
2.3.12 Empathic
According to Armstrong (1996:772), empathy is the ability to put oneself in the other party's shoes
to understand not only what they are hoping to achieve but also why they have these expectations
and the extent to which they are detennined to fulfil them.
Nelson-Jones (2003:30) defines empathy as the capacity to identify oneself mentally with the other
person and to comprehend that person's inner wortd. Empathy is further defined by Brewster,
Carey, Dowling, Grobler, Holland and Wamich (2003:49). They say it is a skill at sensing other
people's emotions, understanding their perspective and taking an active interest in their concerns.
Ashcrofl and Foreman-Peck (1994:130) state that having empathy implies that the CEl should
creatively imagine himself in his studenfs shoes, so that he can think the way the student thinks
and experience the wortd as he does.
Cox (1994:51) adds that if the ca can develop and maintain empathy with his students, it is one
of the most powerful tools for communication he will have. Rostron (2002:241) elaborates by
explaining that a combination of empathy, an awareness of others' feelings and needs. and social
skill all help to produce a desirable response in others and help the CEl to collaborate, co-operate
and develop rapport
36