Here’s this famous saying by Ricky Maye, “Conversation isn’t about proving a point; true conversation is about going on a journey with the people you are speaking with.”
A good conversation is the one which makes you forget that you were waiting for the bus, it is the one which totally draws your attention, the one in which you completely dedicate yourself to the topic of discussion. When was the last time you had such a conversation with anybody? In our busy lives, we don’t really listen to understand, we listen to reply, which hinders the connection.
When a person takes out time to talk to us, we should be equally interested and let him convey what he wants to convey. But how can we do that? Is it difficult? No, not really! Let’s see how we can indulge into a good and fruitful conversation.
Greet Them Politely
Starting with “Hi, how are you?”, or “Hello, it’s so good to see you.” with a smile on your face automatically interests the person to indulge in a conversation. Wouldn’t it feel horrible if somebody comes and meets you with a dull face and simply comes to the point of discussion? Of course, that’s something nobody would want.
Give the Person Their Time
When somebody is talking to us, we should be patient. We should let them make their point first. What’s the hurry for? It is rightly said, “Every conversation starts with good listening.” Interrupting the person before he completes will never let a conversation be effective. So, the very first secret to having a good conversation is to listen to them first, and then reply.
Maintain a Good Eye Contact
According to Research, the Body Language of a person determines up to 55% of the effectiveness of the communication. Your eye movements account for a big fraction of your body language. Maintaining a healthy eye contact while talking strengthens the connection and improves the understanding about what is being said.
Never Say, “You’re Wrong”
While talking, avoid all phrases like “You’re wrong”, “That’s not right” and “That’s make no sense”. These phrases hurt people in a sentimental way. They make them feel like you have no real respect for their thoughts and opinions. Instead of doing it this way, you should simply express your opinion and mention why it is different from what they think.
If You Are Wrong, Admit it Emphatically
Your pride and ego should receive an upper cut when you are wrong. Apologies on being wrong clears the air for a better communication. They should be quick enough to cease the creation of misunderstandings amidst the conversation. This way, the person will be more interested in talking to you.
Appeal to Their Nobler Side
Instead of focusing on what was bad according to you, focus on the good things. Highlight the good part of the conversation and rise above the conflict. If you positively encourage and appreciate the person, he will surely concentrate on better things.
Just imagine how beautiful the world would become if communications between people are effective, encouragement wouldn’t be too costly! This way, we would secretly promote peace and harmony. Come on, let’s do it!
-Sakshi Aneja
“On the constant Mission of Wisdom Discovery. Philophile, Nyctophile and immensely Philozoic. Using my Pen to fill Life into the Plethora of my Thoughts, I am a Learner, a Music Lover and a Kid at Heart.”
