Taming your telephone

In this modern age of communications, with computers, FAX machines, and the videoconference, the decision-making process has been accelerated. Use of the telephone has become more important and intensive. The physician executive must constantly strive to hone the edge of his or her skills to increase productivity and soften the stress of each day. In the 1990s and in the era of health care reform, the physician executive will face increasing pressures and demands. Telephone skills will become increasingly important to organizations and to physician executives' peace of mind. This article considers some fundamental aspects of telephone usage: (1) reasons for provider behavior, (2) the value of the phone as a negotiating tool, (3) suggestions for phone efficiency, (4) guidelines for a successful telephone encounter, and (5) pitfalls.