"People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude and that will either enable you to connect and win them over or it will alienate them from you."
John Maxwell is one of my favorite writers and speakers. This quote of his above is one that resonates with me. Attitude is such a critical character trait that speaks possibly louder than any other.
Working in the medical field we see dozens of people each day. We need to connect with our patients in a positive way and this takes time and energy. We must focus on how we connect with others to be accepted by them. People want to connect with others who they feel are a "giving person,” someone who would rather give of themselves to others than to take.
For some people being a "giver" comes naturally. You can spot a "giver" easily as they always have people gravitating to them. This is because they make people feel good.
What does it take to become a true giver? First, you need to let go of yourself when encountering others, at work or in your personal life. Whatever the encounter is about, it is not about you, it is about them.
Give them your attention, your passion for what you can do for them, and your gratitude that they came to your medical practice for their healthcare problems.
We all know what it is like when you encounter someone who is a taker. The whole encounter is about them and what they will gain. It almost seems like you are a bother to them more than being a customer or a person that they appreciate.
Try to make yourself more aware of your attitude and behavior at work. Ask yourself if you are giving your patients what they deserve—such as your attention, listening, focus, care, compassion, and zeal for what you can do for them.
Are you selfless or selfish with your giving? Making the connection with your patients will make the difference for them and how they feel about you as a person and your practice; give them the gift of connection. This is one gift that will give back more than you can imagine.
"Connection always begins with a commitment to someone else" ~ John Maxwell
