Do you listen or merely hear?
Great communicators are thought to be those who speak eloquent words. But effective communication is more about listening than speaking. Patients are drawn to powerful listeners:
Be present. Be completely with a patient. Don't try to simultaneously monitor a front desk conversation in the midst of a patient consultation. Banish your worries and personal distractions. Completely surrender to the moment and be fully present.
Show up empty. Be so certain of what is true that you can afford to set it aside and be filled by the patient's story. You can't receive if you're already full; full of yourself, your chiropractic story or your plan to "win them over."
Speak less. Constant chatter is a sign that you lack confidence and need to assure yourself. Pick your words thoughtfully. Slow down. Less is more.
As you become a better listener patients become more attentive.