Assertive Communication, An Exercise in Emotional Intelligence at Work

The following is a proven strategy for successful interpersonal relationships in Health Care Organizations:

·Practice Optimism: Think in terms of positive outcomes and solutions. Select your words to uplift and empower ancillary staff and colleagues.

·Always demonstrate civility: Be courteous and respectful. Speak honestly without viciousness or attack.

·Speak candidly. Be straightforward, direct, and open.

·Stick with the facts. Speak clearly and with precision, exactness, and a focus on facts. Be balanced in your use of facts in any claim that you make. Be informative to the listener.

·Use active listening. Listen more than you speak. Listen as if you are going to be tested on understanding the speaker’s words.

·Model the four domains of emotional intelligence: Maintain self-awareness, self-control, social awareness and relationship management.

Practicing and mastering the simple techniques listed above has been demonstrated to be effective in fostering positive interpersonal relationships between physicians and ancillary staff, and also with patients and colleagues.


George Anderson, MSW, BCD, CAMF
Executive Coaching/Anger Management for “disruptive physicians”
Anderson & Anderson®, The Trusted Name in Anger Management
http://www.andersonservices.com/
http://www.aaamp.org
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www.anger-management-resources.org