ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with various communication styles and behaviors, as well as examples to demonstrate their appropriate application. It addresses the importance and relevance of understanding the factors that may influence clients' exercise habits and health behaviors, such as their cultural background. The chapter establishes various methods to help communicate and build rapport with a client. Communication style and communication behavior can mean the difference between what is heard by someone and what is absorbed and understood, which can then translate into long-term behavior change. Effective communicators are able to choose their actions from a wide range of behaviors, sometimes integrating more than one approach. Knowing how to pick the one that stands the chance of success is a skill in and of itself and takes time and practice to master. The chapter ends with a discussion of the basics of an interviewing technique as a structural framework for how to conduct a productive, and person-centered conversation with a client.
