interpersonal skills question

General E. Speaking, RN, RN · Jan 14, 2011

I think a public speaking class would be a great start. It would build your confidence and no doubt give you tips that will help in ordinary conversation too. You will feel more confident and boost your communication skills!!

I think I took an Interpersonal Communication class in college. Something like this may be helpful to you too.

grateful2010, LPN, LVN · Jan 14, 2011

What is the reason behind your nerves? Usually when we have difficulty explaining ourselves to others is because we aren't clear on the topic. If you are clear on a topic i'm sure you'll be confident in expressing yourself.

I have great interpersonal skills. It comes natural. As for someone trying to build interpersonal skills, I would say to be kind, caring and truly listen to others and respond accordingly. I don't think you need a speech class. People skills are built by interacting with people-go out and be social, it will all work out in the end. :up:

UpinawayRN · Jan 14, 2011

I feel your pain. We are not all naturally born with public speaking confidence. And true, the more you worry about not communicating well, the worse it gets. Could be a general anxiety. Maybe you are just an introvert, and nothing wrong with that! You'll need to retrain your brain on not hyperfocusing on being judged. There is so much info on the web regarding this. (I am awkward at heart, but no longer care so much about being judged) just think before you speak, and picture yourself as cool as a cucumber! With experience comes "I can handle this" You are just like many of us. Oh and don't be afraid to say" I'm really not sure, I'll find out"

herowneulogy, BSN, RN · Jan 14, 2011

I feel your pain. We are not all naturally born with public speaking confidence. And true, the more you worry about not communicating well, the worse it gets. Could be a general anxiety. Maybe you are just an introvert, and nothing wrong with that! You'll need to retrain your brain on not hyperfocusing on being judged. There is so much info on the web regarding this. (I am awkward at heart, but no longer care so much about being judged) just think before you speak, and picture yourself as cool as a cucumber! With experience comes "I can handle this" You are just like many of us. Oh and don't be afraid to say" I'm really not sure, I'll find out"

I so loved your answer :)

kakamegamama · Jan 14, 2011

I think a public speaking course is a good idea---I was in speech in high school, and it changed my life regarding speaking to others. I still struggle sometimes though, especially in new situations, but, I've also managed to make it in other countries, meeting people I never thought this small town girl would meet, etc., etc. So, hang in there, relax, and breathe....

Jingles39 · Jan 14, 2011

Reading through this thread is making me look forward to my speech class I have coming up this Fall. :)

It's so odd, many people tell me that I'm well spoken, and my step mother just over the holidays asked if I enjoy public speaking because I "seem the type"..and yet deep down I'm really quite terrified of it and incredibly self conscious because of some weight (ok, alot) that I've gained over the last few years.

It's definitely one of those demons I hope to conquer one day too, OP.

slave_diverRN · Jan 14, 2011

Public speaking is a good choice....that will help you ease some of your nervousness

An even BETTER choice is to take a class where you learn about communication styles. You learn your communication style and how to read the communication styles of others so that you can learn to 'read' who needs what kind of information.

Some people are task-oriented and prefer to know details of the job, while others are people-oriented and prefer to know feelings and mood first. You also learn to read how to tell the difference between those who want FAST and high-level vs those who want you to take your time and give all the facts.

Often this is called DISC training and IMO should be mandatory in nursing school.... it really helps you with your therapeutic communication. Here's one site that talks more about it: DiSC Test | DiSC Assessment | DiSC Report

Finally, kudos to you for recognizing this is a challenge that you can do something about and taking the steps to improve your communication skills!

nurse2033, MSN, RN · Jan 14, 2011

I woud say the public speaking and interpersonal communication are not same thing. Sure they are related, but keep your eye on the ball. I've struggled with this also and I would say I'm worlds better than I was when I was younger. I think the key is to relate to other people, even when you don't have much in common. Look for ways to connect with your coworkers even if it is a bit of a stretch for you. Showing no interest in another person will definitely turn them away. Even if you have to make mental notes to yourself ask about their children or new car or whatever. These icebreakers seem superficial to some people but they are rituals that make people feel comfortable and open doors. Good luck.

eternalbride · Jan 16, 2011

I also signed up for interpersonal communication class. I just hope it serves me well.

I'm truely a introvert person. When in class or in a group I say little to nothing. I can talk really well at times,but other times I feel that I'm talking childish. :uhoh3: The more I think of how others commmunicate or may perceive me, the more flustered and nervous I become.

any ways we all as humans have weakness that we all need to overcome in life. :rolleyes:

Once again thanks for your responses.... I feel through all your responses and recommendations that I can and will have better interpersonal skills. :)

diane227, LPN, RN · Jan 17, 2011

A public speaking course is a wonderful idea. Also if your area has a Toastmasters Club, join up and you will get some practice in public speaking. When I was much younger I used to get very nervous speaking in public. But now I will talk to any number of people about anything. The trick is preparation and being confident about your topic. If I need to speak with someone about a topic that I am not that familiar with, for example a certain diagnosis... I get a reference to take with me so that I can refer to it. If I don't know, I just say so but I try to find the information for them elsewhere. If you are nervous when calling the doctor then prepare ahead of time. Have your MAR, chart, notes, order sheet, and any lab or x-ray data that might be needed available and with you. Plan out ahead of time what the issue is that you need to speak to the doctor about. What specific pieces of information do you need to provide. Preparation is a big help in reducing anxiety about speaking.