Four Tips to Enhance Your Interpersonal Skills

Navigating the operating room environment as a new nurse can be daunting, but developing strong interpersonal skills can significantly ease this transition. Here are four quick and easy tips to enhance these skills.

1. Introduce Yourself

Break the ice by introducing yourself to new people you encounter. Adding a personal touch, like sharing a fun fact about yourself, can make a lasting impression. For example, mentioning that you're a new grad nurse creates an opening for others to ask more about you, fostering connection.

2. Use Eye Contact

Use eye contact to communicate effectively and instill a sense of accountability in your interactions. This skill, often honed with patients, is equally beneficial when engaging with your surgical team. Establishing eye contact helps build rapport, especially with team members you're working with for the first time.

3. Learn and Use Names

With an extensive list of people to interact with, make an effort to remember names. Take notes, if necessary. Commit names to memory and use them in your interactions. This simple practice goes a long way in building a connection and fostering a positive working relationship.

4. Be Yourself

Share elements of who you are with your team members. Whether it’s discussing hobbies, unique travel experiences, or personal goals, letting your personality shine creates a richer team dynamic. Embrace your individuality, be proud of your unique qualities, and remember that your colleagues are just as interested in getting to know you as you are in knowing them.

Conclusion

By incorporating these tips into your interactions, you’ll not only overcome the initial challenges of feeling like an outsider but also contribute to a more supportive and collaborative environment in the operating room.

AORN Resources

Open access:

• Develop Your Soft Skills to Get Along and Get Ahead | AORN