Let’s be honest—bedside manner doesn’t come naturally to everyone. It’s rarely emphasized in training, and for some physicians, it can feel like the part of the job that’s hardest to crack. If you’ve ever received critical feedback from a patient about how you made them feel—or if you suspect your interactions are falling flat—you’re not alone.

Eric Mann, MD, has been there. Now a seasoned practice owner with over 20 years of experience, he’s developed a reputation for making patients feel at ease. But that didn’t happen by accident. Over time, Eric adopted a few surprisingly simple habits that helped him shift how patients saw him—and how he saw himself.

Here are three simple things that have helped Eric receive positive review after positive review from patients.

Why It Matters

Improving your bedside manner isn’t just about being liked—it’s about delivering better care. When patients feel heard and respected, they’re more likely to adhere to treatment plans, report higher satisfaction, and even experience better clinical outcomes. Good communication has also been linked to reduced malpractice risk.

In other words, making small changes to how you show up in the room can have big downstream effects.

1. Acquire Some Barstool Knowledge

Not every patient interaction needs to start with a medical question. Sometimes, starting with small talk—especially about something patients care about—can be the most effective way to build rapport.

“I never miss an episode of Pardon the Interruption, a sports show on ESPN,” Eric says. “I’ve seen every episode for over 25 years.”

He doesn’t watch for the stats. “I may not know every detail of sports, but I love to know the current topics,” he explains. “Sports can be a relatable topic, especially since most people know I’m a huge Duke Blue Devils fan.” (Eric graduated magna cum laude from Duke University)

That kind of cultural awareness creates common ground, especially with patients who may feel nervous or guarded. “It lets us enjoy a commonality that’s outside the world of medicine,” he says.

Try this:

• Browse headlines from ESPN, NPR, pop culture podcasts, or local news each morning.
• Start a visit with: “Catch the game last night?”, “Been listening to any good music?”, or “Any fun weekend plans coming up?”
• Share your own interests—sports, music, food, pets—to create a relatable moment.

2. Reveal Something from Your Private Life

If patients see you as a one-dimensional provider, it’s harder for them to connect with you. Sharing small, personal details can break the ice and help patients feel more comfortable.

“One thing I tell patients that surprises them is that I love to play the piano and write music,” Eric shares. “Most people don’t expect that. But for me, the piano is where I express things that don’t always come out in day-to-day life.”

Eric, who describes himself as easygoing and non-confrontational, finds creative expression a powerful outlet. “When I share it, it changes how patients see me—and how they feel around me.”

These personal revelations don’t need to be big or dramatic. Just authentic.

Try this:

• Mention a hobby or passion when the opportunity arises.
• Display personal photos or books in your office.
• Share a light story from your weekend—it invites openness.

3. Think About Your Non-Verbals

Time is tight in any physician’s office or care setting. But even when you’re efficient, how you show up in the room matters—and patients pick up on more than you might think.

“We have a lot of systems in place to make us efficient,” Eric says. “But it’s very important not to make it feel like an assembly line.”

That means focusing on the little things: “Eye contact, a smile, a gentle touch on the shoulder—these things show patients that you’re present. That you’re with them.”

And no, it doesn’t have to slow you down. Even 10 seconds of eye contact can shift the tone of a visit and make a patient feel more seen.

Try this:

• Make eye contact before turning to the chart or screen.
• Sit at eye level, even for a brief exchange.
• Use a warm, affirming gesture—like a nod or hand shake—when appropriate.

Quick Self-Check

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