Even though perception and impression formation occur in specific ways, they are not unchangeable processes. You can improve your perception and impressions by critically questioning your own judgments and routinely considering the feelings, needs, and viewpoints of others.

As we have emphasized throughout this chapter, accurate perception is key if you wish to bolster the competence of your communication. Two skills can help you improve your perception and the resulting communication choices you make: perception-checking and empathy.

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