Derrick Mason graduated from UW-Green Bay’s SEPP program in 2023 and is a Mental Performance Specialist at Aurora BayCare Sports Medicine who works with individual athletes and teams across all levels — youth, high school, collegiate, and professional — to enhance focus, confidence, motivation, resilience, and overall mental toughness. Derrick is passionate about helping athletes unlock their full potential by training the mind just as intentionally as the body. Below he shares effective strategies in adapting communication styles to the client.
Effective Strategies in Adapting Communication Style
As a mental performance specialist in a large organization, I support a diverse range of clients—athletes, performers, and wellness-focused individuals—spanning various sports, age groups, and cultural backgrounds. While this diversity is energizing, it also presents communication challenges. In a single afternoon, I might meet with a professional team-sport athlete in their 20s, a high school individual-sport athlete, and a middle-aged fitness client. Adapting my communication style to each is essential. Below are some strategies I use to navigate these transitions effectively.
- Do Some Homework
- You don’t need to be an expert in every sport, but basic research helps. Learn key terms and familiarize yourself with the major leagues or top athletes in the sport—it builds rapport, especially in less mainstream sports.
- Also, be mindful of generational language differences. While you don’t need to mimic slang, understanding it can help you connect. For instance, a teen might say they “crashed out,” a phrase that may confuse older clients.
- Be Curious
- Even with preparation, you won’t know everything. Be open about that. Ask clients to explain unfamiliar terms—they’re usually happy to share. I’ve learned about “twist marching” and “accelerando” from band clients this way. Showing genuine interest strengthens rapport.
- Just be sure to clarify early on that your expertise in sport, performance, and exercise psychology applies across disciplines, even if their specific activity is new to you.
- Know When to Lead or Listen
- Session dynamics vary by client. Younger athletes often need more structure—specific questions, guided activities, and in-session practice. With higher-level athletes, I may say little at first as they dive into recent performances or team dynamics. My role with these clients is to listen actively, track key themes, and revisit them thoughtfully.
- Regardless of the client, I always come prepared with a session plan. Even if it goes unused, it’s better to have it ready than to be caught off guard.
- Use Analogies and Metaphors
- When explaining concepts, don’t rely solely on textbook definitions or feel that you need to tie everything directly to the client’s sport. Draw from other sports they may have played or even everyday experiences. I’ve used examples like driving a car or getting frustrated at school to help clients grasp ideas like mindfulness and acceptance. These relatable comparisons can make abstract concepts more accessible and memorable.
- Be Yourself
- It’s important to adapt to meet each client’s needs—but that should come at the cost of your authenticity. Clients can tell when you are being genuine, and that trust is vital. While you may shift your tone, language, or interventions based on unique client needs, your core values and style should be consistent. You don’t need to mimic another consultant to be effective. Your best work will happen when you remain true to yourself.
Written by: Derrick Mason
Interested in connecting with Derrick? Connect via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickhmason/
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