I’m Dr. Hassan, a Board-Certified Physiatrist and Independent Practice Owner. I help physiatrists start and grow their own profitable practices so they can achieve financial independence and live without limits.

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When building a profitable practice, it’s important to communicate effectively. Communication skills are key. The word communication is general in its meaning, however. It could take on many roles depending on the use and context. It also has many formats in its delivery mechanism. You can listen to music or watch videos, or you can read a book.

Conversations are forms of communication as well. Because of the general aspect of communication, it’s difficult to imagine formulating it into a scale. It is possible, however, and many colleges offer majors in communication, which elevates the field. It’s not necessary to study at a four-year college to enhance your communication skills though. It just takes basic knowledge and some practice.

The biggest skill you can use to communicate effectively is to listen.

People are not natural listeners, as they are focused on themselves. It’s how we are wired. We will always put ourselves first. Part of that is a survival mechanism, but, because of our self-serving nature, listening to others is secondary and requires us to put effort into being better listeners.

To increase your ability to listen to others, repeat back everything they say the next time you are speaking with someone. That may be a little scary to them at first, but if they look at you with a bewildered look, explain that you’re just making sure you understood what they said. Once they get past that awkwardness, they will welcome the exchange.

The next step to better communication is to use simple language.

When you want others to understand the meaning, you need to ensure everyone will understand the words. People have different levels of education. Therefore, you want to use the lowest communication denominator when speaking to everyone. You should not view this as a means of looking down at others. Rather, your goal is to make sure you are understood. Express yourself in such a way that both an 8-year-old and a 80-year-old can understand what you mean.

Speaking and writing in basic language is the best way to accomplish this. You must consider the feelings of the people with whom you are communicating. Even if you are a manager, barking orders at people is a one of the least effective ways. Consider everyone’s opinions and needs. Keep people engaged in a communication platform. This way, they take ownership of the process. That is a massive benefit for excellent communication. You will get more out of people when this happens then merely rattling off commands as if they are robots. There are some instances, such as the military, where shouting orders is necessary. But these are the exception, not the rule.

As you learn to communicate effectively, you might notice less disagreements, frustration, and even better engagement in your marketing.

I am Dr. Hassan, Board- Certified Physiatrist. I help physiatrists start and grow their own independent practice so that they can achieve financial independence and live without limits. Please go to businessofrehab.com/guide to pick up the free guide to help you determine the best business entity for your new practice.

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Listening is a critical part of every job interview. Check out our blog here to find out how you can increase your listening skills to ace any interview.

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Attention, Physiatrists! Stop leaving money on the table. Sign up for the free video series: How To Build A Profitable Practice in 90 Days or Less: http://www.sixtytosuccess.com