Had a client tell me my brusque notes made her feel like a kid being scolded

Switched from 'You failed to floss' to 'Noticed some buildup between 4 and 5, let's focus on that area' and she actually started flossing before her next visit. Anyone else find that a small wording tweak changed how people took feedback?

2 comments

2 Comments

daniel59315d ago

Man, isn't it wild how just a few words can make or break someone's whole mood? I've seen stuff like that in my own life too... it's like people shut down the second they feel judged, even if you mean well. You weren't wrong for pointing out the flossing thing, just the way you said it felt harsh to her. That small switch you made probably saved her from feeling embarrassed or defensive, which is huge. It's honestly a good reminder for me to watch my own wording, especially when I'm trying to help someone improve something.

willow_morgan15d ago

Does it ever just hit you how much power we actually have over someone's day with just a few words? That flossing thing was such a small moment, but I've been on both sides of it. When someone makes me feel stupid for not knowing something my first instinct is to shut down and not listen to anything else they say. It's a shame because the advice might actually be solid, but the delivery kills it. I'm glad your friend took it well in the end. It's a good feeling when you see someone actually improve from what you said instead of just getting mad at you.