Evolve your style.

The best communicators are able to shift their communication style depending on the situation or the people with whom they’re speaking. Never get stuck in one way of communicating, or the “I’ve always done it this way” model.

Some patients need more empathetic exploration, and active tending to emotional distress. Others want information without any frills or distractions, they’re the “just tell it to me straight” crowd. Some people don’t respond well to a strategy of silence, while others don’t respond well to naming the emotion. Once you’ve figured out how your patient communicates best, shift your style accordingly.

Remember: effective communication is about conveying your message in a way that resonates with your patient, not necessarily in a way that makes you feel most comfortable. Sometime they’re two very different things. That’s why we practice!