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Communicating for success: Listen up! |
What did you say? We’ve all had the experience of trying to explain something to someone, only to have that person ask a question at the end of the explanation that proves they weren’t listening.
In order to really communicate, we must listen to others. But listening is difficult. The rate at which someone talks is much slower than our rate of mental processing, with the result that a person can appear to be listening to you while you are thinking about other things.
We all need to listen better, but this skill is most especially important for chiropractors, because they need to listen to patients.
Why should you listen?
- Listening lets patients know you care enough to pay attention.
- Listening helps you understand the patient’s point of view.
- Listening gives you important information about the patient’s feelings.
Patients want a doctor who is a good listener. In other words, they want their doctor to listen and really understand what they are saying and how they are feeling.
Practicing active listening techniques can improve your relationship with patients, so it’s worth the time and energy to do it right.
If you have not practiced your listening skills in a while, now is the time to do it, particularly if you are nearing the clinical portion of your education. Here are five listening tips to keep in mind:
1. Start with a positive attitude.Some people can be annoying or overly talkative, or may have speech impediments. If you begin the conversation with the attitude that you intend to be supportive and helpful, your communication with that person will be positive.
2. Maintain eye contact. Don’t stare, but look the person in the eye. Looking everywhere except at the other person’s eyes gives the impression you have something to hide.
3. Use nonverbal communication to reinforce your connection. Nod your head, or keep your hands open and palms up. Don’t sit with your arms folded; this indicates that you’re not interested.
4. Ask questions. Ask at appropriate points, as long as you don’t interrupt the patient.
5. Practice active listening.That is, when the patient is finished speaking, repeat what he or she said. For example: You might say, “I heard you say that your biggest concern was your lack of feeling in your arms. Is that right?” Active listening helps to clarify understanding. |
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