Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas partners with New Directions to make sure our members and employees have access to the behavioral health resources they need.

Communicating effectively can be complex and require practice and skill. Fortunately, there are specific things that you can do to build your communication tool box. Follow the suggestions below to learn some of the key techniques.

Create an atmosphere of trust

•  Show others that you are a good communicator. Listen openly to each person.
• Try to avoid judgment or unnecessary criticism.
• Give praise and positive feedback.

Get your thoughts together

• Do research beforehand. Create notes and do your homework on the subject.
• Be specific, accurate and honest about the subject.

Adjust to your audience

• Consider what the other person already knows.
• Try not to use jargon or terms that are too technical.
• Pick an appropriate place to talk. If the subject is personal, pick a private place.

Invite feedback

• Ask your listener what he thinks of a subject and ask about the pros and the cons.

Use appropriate tones of voice and body language

• Adjust tone and body language as needed.
• Only use tones that are appropriate.
• Check your body language.

To help people understand where you’re coming from, you must do more than just state your point. Communication skills take time and practice, but the more you work at it the more effective you’ll be.

BCBSKS members with behavioral health benefits through New Directions can get support with finding in-network doctors, locating community resources, and defining and achieving goals when it comes to mental health.