Daily Dental Podcast 749. The Power of “Exactly”: A Simple Communication Shift That Builds Trust
Dec 30, 2025
Discover the transformative power of the word “exactly” in communication. Dr. Killeen emphasizes the importance of listening to foster genuine understanding, which builds trust with patients and colleagues alike. By practicing accurate empathy, you can create a calmer and more effective dialogue. Learn tactical steps for reflecting and checking understanding to enhance connections both in and out of the dental office. This insightful discussion reveals how slowing down in conversations can dramatically improve the quality of interactions.
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The Power Of One Word
- The single word "exactly" signals someone feels truly understood and opens connection.
- When you elicit that response, trust rises and resistance often falls.
Shutdown Comes From Misunderstanding
- People often shut down from feeling misunderstood, not from disagreeing.
- Restoring understanding revives connection and makes treatment conversations productive.
Practice Accurate Empathy
- Practice accurate empathy by understanding someone's experience the way they do.
- Reflect their meaning in your own words and then check if you got it right.