Conversations That Matter

Every living being can practically converse in one way or the other and as humans, we have mastered the art conversation in time. There being several types, levels, and more to a conversation, here in this article, I share my thoughts on conversations that reminds us to do better as learners, as professionals and in social mediums.

“Conversation illuminates the connection; people have with one another”

It is not all about you

The first and foremost thing about conversation is that it is not all about you. The primary objective of a conversation is to start developing an understanding about the person. This happens when you engage in a two-way conversation of giving and taking, hence the next time you get on a conversation try to balance the listening to talking ratio.

Set Boundaries

Prior to starting the conversation, know what you are and not willing to talk. Though conversations are great in connecting and enlightening people, it is most often the single most factor that inadvertently disengages people. Hence, do not allow yourself to indulge in a conversation that is far beyond your wheelhouse.

Be fully present

At times, when we are physically present, we may be mentally in another universe. This makes the conversation counterproductive, by not fully focusing on what is being said, we miss out information that may add depth to our understanding of the conversation. So, the next time you start a conversation, try imagining that you are turning off a switch that relates to other thoughts on your mind.

Set the right tone and volume

What you speak and how you speak matters! Tone & volume can reflect the attitude or the feelings that are associated with your verbal message. But when it comes to tone and volume most of us have blind spots because we are so used to our own voice and would not know the difference. As a matter of practice, it is advised to check your tone & volume with the listener during the start of the conversation.

Show kindness and respect

Being kind and respectful is the bedrock for a good conversation, without them no meaningful conversation can take place. Having respect is quite different from showing respect, even when you do not agree with a person, you may still show respect

Examine

Despite our best intention, conversation can often change its beats into an inconvenient rhythm. In such scenarios, examine your conversational partners perspective with openness and curiosity. And be forward in letting know how you feel during the conversation and seek input to bring back the conversation to harmony. Always remember that transparency simplifies complex conversations.

Follow-up

First and foremost, it signals care, be it business or friendship, follow-up conversation can make a great impression! Do not wait for people to call you back, it may turn out that the person had been thinking of contacting you, too! The key here is to remember, hence setting up a reminder can help you do the follow up conversation.

Practice

Every conversation is an opportunity to practice and improve. Practice is crucial when you are trying to improve any skill, thus improving your conversation skills must involve daily practice. The best way to practice is to put yourself in a position to have many conversations.

Although conversations are becoming rare and a challenge as we all move into the world of technology, We must remind ourselves to hold good conversations as often as possible. In our professional life, good conversations can help us land a new job or client, lay the groundwork for future promotions. In the social life, good conversation skills can help us build and strengthen relationships. 

Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters and last but not the least, good conversation begins at home. Thank you for your time and patience, please comment your thoughts on conversation that matters.

Warm Regards – Joshua Kirupakaran