| Abstract: Although many behavior analyst training programs teach a range of technical skills needed to create effective interventions, soft skills are often both difficult to teach and acquire. Soft skills are a class of behaviors that improve interactions in a professional environment and are crucial in promoting buy-in from supervisees and service recipients. Poor soft skills can negatively affect treatment integrity and outcomes. This is especially apparent when the behavior analyst and service recipient or supervisee are from different cultural backgrounds in which values may differ. How to Win Friends and Influence People (Carnegie, 1936; republished 2022), provides a variety of strategies aimed at improving soft skills. The book is written for a general audience, and the descriptions are imprecise and rely on “feel” rather than technical precision. This talk will translate the strategies outlined in the book into specific behavior analytic principles. Translated strategies will focus on how to communicate effectively, build rapport, provide reinforcement to service recipients and supervisees in a manner that is genuine and effective, and on how to redirect poor implementation without damaging relationships. This talk is beneficial for anyone looking to improve their communication skills or who is interested in becoming a more effective supervisor. |