COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY 129
Enhancing Your Communication Skills Communication skills can be learned. Suggestions to improve your communication skills are shown in Table 9-3.
To communicate effectively, first consider your relationship to the receiver (e.g., boss or patient). Then craft your message. Be clear about your goal in your mind so that you can com- municate it appropriately. Then think about what the other person is liable to say and consider how you might respond.
Next decide on the medium. Is this message best conveyed in person, by phone, e-mail, or text? Should you leave a message if the person isn’t available? Note the personal intimacy con- tent earlier in the chapter for guidance.
Timing plays a critical role in successful communication. Catch your boss in the midst of planning for a budget shortfall and you are less apt to get a receptive hearing.