"Sooner The Better": Methods of Improving Soft Skills For The Radiologist and Staff in the Workplace

Purpose: -To define and distinguish soft skills from hard skills

-To describe the soft skills and the methods that can be used to enhance them in the radiology workplace.

Methods/Materials: During their medical training, radiologists acquire hard skills, including diagnostic and procedural abilities. The concept of soft skills is less tangible, often involving one's personality, and includes characteristics such as communication, leadership, empathy, humility, confidence, managing stress and a strong work ethic.
We discuss the importance of soft skills as it applies to the radiology workplace.

Results: The role of a radiologist involves discussing imaging with patients and clinicians and interacting with hospital administration. Excellent communication abilities are imperative for success. Leading teams and while coaching others is important. Showing empathy toward patients and families and listening are great skills. The ability to manage stress and understanding how to not transfer this to others around you. When you don't know something, asking others is a tool to help get answers and shows a strong work ethic. All these soft skills are essential in the radiology workplace to achieve success.
As a radiologist, one approach to improving communication skills is to participate in simulated conversations with colleagues with difficult topics such as conveying bad results, unexpected findings or learning how to calm an anxious patient. It is also possible for radiologists and departmental staff to practice interpersonal skills by raising concerns with supervisors and discussing process improvement activities. Residents may be given opportunities to lead case presentations and to take independent calls in order to develop their leadership skills.

Conclusions: Soft skills are essential for radiologists to perform their duties effectively. These skills help in patient care and are most important for success.