Hit Me with Your Best Shot: Mastering Critique and Criticism

Medical writing is both a science and an art. It requires a clear understanding of medical concepts and terminology, a thorough knowledge of specific requirements for different types of documents and excellent writing skills. Perhaps, the most important aspect of medical writing is the ability to handle the unique challenges of critique and criticism. Robin Whitsell, founder and president of Whitsell Innovations, Inc, will be presenting this topic in the open session “It’s Not You; It’s Me: Dealing with Critique and Criticism” at the AMWA 75th Annual Conference in San Antonio, TX, September 30-October 3, 2015.

Although the Annual Conference is in less than three weeks, Whitsell has provided a sneak peek of what she will be discussing.

• Strategies for handling feedback.
• How to encourage substantive and actionable feedback that adds depth and insight.
• The skills needed for handling critique and criticism in a positive way that minimizes defensiveness or anger.
• How to maintain patience, professionalism, and self-control when receiving feedback.
• How to have challenging conversations with difficult individuals in order to achieve desired results for: you, others, the relationship, or the organization.
• Strategies and techniques for establishing and maintaining a team rapport.

Whitsell’s presentation will provide case study examples of crucial conversations with difficult individuals. Audience members are encouraged to share their personal experiences of high stakes dialogue and offer solutions for achieving a successful outcome. This very engaging session is an exciting opportunity for medical writers at all levels.

Taken together, this open session will enable attendees to learn effective communication skills and prepare them to perform as persuasive communicators and problem solvers. These skills are critical to improving: productivity, diversity, and relationships both professionally and personally. More importantly, everyone can and should practice these proven techniques and practical tools in their daily lives. The more we practice these techniques the more intrinsic and spontaneous our communication skills will become.

To learn additional tips on how to best approach a crucial conversation with skill and empathy, check out 12 Tips for Handling Difficult Conversations.

For those interested in attending an additional open session presented by Whitsell at the 2015 Annual Conference, check out “No Weak Links: Mentoring and Coaching in Medical Writing.” Please see the registration brochure for a detailed description and time of this session.

To join the Twitter conversation, follow @AmMedWriters and use#AMWA2015.

-Tara Ann Cartwright, PhD; 2015 Annual Conference Planning Committee