The Art of Better Conversations

What separates a meh conversation from a memorable one? It’s not just what you say—it’s how you navigate the flow. 🗣️

Most people assume conversation is natural. We do it every day, right? But like anything else, great conversations require skill, practice, and intention.

Here are a few things I recently learned from a podcast featuring Allison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor, who studies the science of conversation:

1. Confidently Switch Topics 🎯

If a conversation feels like it’s dragging, it probably is. Great communicators don’t let topics overstay their welcome. They move on purpose before things feel stale.

2. Ask More Follow-Up Questions 👂

People love to be heard. The easiest way to make someone feel valued? Ask one more follow-up question than you normally would. You’ll be surprised at how deep a conversation can go.

3. Use Levity, Not Just Logic 😆

Conversations aren’t just about transferring information—they’re about connection. A little humor or lightness goes a long way in making people feel at ease. You don’t have to be a comedian, but you can’t be boring.

4. Master the Exit 🎤

Ending a conversation smoothly is just as important as starting one. A simple “This has been great! Let’s talk again soon” is better than awkwardly lingering.

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Conversations shape how people perceive you, your leadership, and your influence. The best leaders? They aren’t the best speakers—they’re the best conversationalists.

If you made one change to your conversations to make them better, what do you think that would be? 

For me it’s Master the Exit. Erica has told me, on more than a few occasions, that I’m a terrible conversation-ender.

Let’s go have some better conversations.

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