Impressions

What impression is given when someone walks into a room - or is even shown into a room - and the person/people already there show no interest in the newcomer, no introductions are made?  

Imagine a couple distraught with worry over their daughter aged 14, who had been diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, who are finally given an appointment to meet with a psychiatrist.  They had travelled a long distance to keep the appointment and, although tired and worried, looked forward to hearing how they could help their daughter.

On entering the room they stopped and waited while the professional there continued reading his notes.  Eventually he looked up and indicated chairs opposite him, then returned to his reading. 

Finally he spoke - 'In my experience, an eating disorder usually involves sexual abuse in the family.'

Important Scene Setting

Whatever the background to the case, that beginning set the scene for very unhappy professional/family relationships - which certainly didn't help the daughter in any way. 

Introductions are really important in setting the scene for the best possible coordination of care between professional and family.

How can the initial part of any meeting set the scene for the most effective all-round care and support?

For more on how to ensure a meeting can be as constructive and productive as possible, see Introductions on our Members Area.