Lt JG Taj'el - Questions
Taj'el
((Counselling Suites, Deck 10, USS Ronin))
Taj’el found it difficult to determine whether they were being analyzed or if this was simply standard social interaction. Meris had been easy to converse with, given their similarities in disposition. Lieutenant Shortrith, likewise, had not proven difficult to engage; his measured tone and deliberate clarity made interpretation more straightforward. His expressions, thus far, were readable and not overly complex. Even so, Taj’el retained a lingering concern that their own responses might be… imprecise.
Taj'el: I do not know. I believe most conversations begin with introductions, followed by basic inquiries such as one’s well-being, preferred colors, or interest in sweets. From that baseline of information, more advanced interaction can then proceed.
Shortrith: Well, that's certainly one way to approach it.
Taj’el: Was that inaccurate?
Shortrith: Yes and no. Some parties dislike small talk, as it makes them uncomfortable. These people may appreciate trying to find common ground, for example, things that both you and the person are interested in.
That conclusion appeared logical. Establishing a topic of mutual interest would facilitate more effective communication. There was limited utility in speaking if the listener possessed neither interest in, nor need for, the information being conveyed.
Taj’el: I see… we could simply speak about ourselves. Alternatively, you could provide a breakdown of what is required for effective bedside manner.
They raised an eyebrow, having believed that to be the logical progression. Many individuals appeared to prefer discussing themselves and sharing personal history; however, the Doctor’s negative expression suggested otherwise. Taj’el made a mental note that this assumption may have been incomplete.
Shortrith: Talking about yourself isn't… It's not really what some may appreciate. If one solely talks about themself, they leave a, in human terms, sour taste.
Taj’el: A sour reaction? I see. It had seemed the most logical method of learning about an individual, their interests and disposition, would be to have them speak about themselves. However, there is merit in the perspective that casual interactions do not require extensive personal disclosure. Then… small talk would be the appropriate alternative?
Shortrith: Not exactly. If you're aware of something that you both have an appreciation for, maybe talk about that. Or, maybe, ask people if there's anything interesting that they're working on. Make sure to pay attention, because people like rambling and they typically appreciate it when someone else listens.
Taj’el: I am a proficient listener. However, it appears effective to bridge initial gaps by asking a set of preliminary questions to identify a topic of mutual interest, and then proceeding to discuss that subject.
Shortrith: In a way, yes, but there are other ways to approach it. Such as asking further questions.
Taj’el: Elaboration… I see.
They exhaled softly, as the process appeared excessively tedious for the purpose of gaining control over their abilities. However, given the inherently invasive nature of those abilities, it was a necessary undertaking. Without such effort, they risked remaining confined to the use of these gloves for the duration of their Starfleet career, if not longer.
Taj’el: Then… may I ask you to elaborate about yourself? Ah, more specific questions. ::pause:: Perhaps, why did you choose to become a doctor, more specifically, a counselor?
Shortrith: response
Taj’el: Understood. I have observed that the question of why one joins Starfleet is often considered surprisingly personal. Please forgive me if this inquiry was similarly… intrusive.
Shortrith: response
Taj’el: Reciprocation… I see. I have a background in the sciences and chose to evaluate whether medicine would be a more suitable path. Upon joining Starfleet, I transitioned into medical studies after several years at the Vulcan Science Academy.
Shortrith: response
Looking around, Taj’el assessed that the interaction had begun to resemble a counseling session. If the objective was general communication rather than formal evaluation, it might be more appropriate to conduct the discussion in a different setting. Recent interactions with Doctor Saa may have influenced this perception, yet the conclusion remained that remaining seated in the current room for this type of exchange did not appear optimal.
Taj’el: Should we perhaps walk? It may help prevent this from feeling clinical… or overly formal, like work.
Shortrith: response
[[TAGS/TBC]]
