1. Communicate effectively

1. Language use

How you use verbal and non-verbal language is very important to how you support clients and their families and friends, and work with your co-workers effectively. 

Different situations require different use of language. For example, you would not use a lot of complicated health terminology when talking with a person with a cognitive or intellectual disability about what their support needs are today. 

The words you use are very important and knowing what language to use and when is a crucial skill when working in the industry.

Low angle view of three physicians reviewing medical chart
 
Talking with health professional

You are talking with a nurse of doctor about a consumer's symptoms and their specific health condition.

Use specific, detailed health terminology
Pleasant nice people having a group discussion
 
Talking with family

You are discussing the deterioration of a service user's health with approved family members.

Use general, common terms.
Attractive aged businesswoman, teacher or mentor coach speaking to young people, senior woman in glasses teaching audience at training seminar, female business leader speaker talking at meeting
 
Talking with colleagues

You are talking with your supervisor or co-workers about policies and procedures in your workplace.