Communication is vital to building a healthy and thriving company; and employees must have the proper skills in order to successfully accomplish this.
Since the dawn of time, communication has been identified as a complex process prone to errors, oversights, and misunderstandings. A number of clients leave home care companies each year due to poor communication or a complete lack thereof. Common issues often include the use of too much “jargon” or simply not truly listening, which hinders understanding. Sometimes the breakdown occurs when a caregiver takes too long to respond to questions. Regardless, communication is vital to building and maintaining a successful business, providing quality care and attention to clients.
The process comes naturally for some individuals. They seem to have been born understanding how to validate feelings and express themselves clearly. Others may struggle, at least at first. Every client and caregiver is different. In realizing that, we are better able to help ourselves and others improve.
According to an article from Home Care Pulse, there are a few helpful guidelines to follow:
Avoid interrupting.
Ask open-ended questions.
Be sensitive to concerns.
Maintain a professional appearance.
Always be honest.
Understand that we are all human, and everyone is different.
Effective communication demonstrates to clients that you care for them and that their happiness matters. It conveys an appreciation not only for the person, but also for their choice to enlist your company for support in their daily life.
Visit The STAR Center’s website for information regarding our in-home companion care!