Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart
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Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication. Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges. Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships. Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.

  1. 178. Navigating Chaos and Uncertainty: The Power of Transparency and Empathy

    21 HR AGO

    178. Navigating Chaos and Uncertainty: The Power of Transparency and Empathy

    Clear communication during times of uncertainty. Whether leading people through a 15-minute meeting or a years-long pandemic, communication requires compassion. For Dr. Anthony Fauci, that means being clear about who we’re speaking to and concise in what we say. As one of the world's leading experts in infectious diseases and public health, Fauci has been America's most trusted voice during the COVID-19 pandemic and other health crises. Whether addressing groups of fellow scientists and specialists or everyday people, his communication approach is the same. "Know your audience," he says. "Decide what your message is and make it crisp [and] clear." In addition to being clear about the known facts, Fauci advocates for equal transparency about the unknowns. "Be totally transparent into what you know and what you don't know," he says. "Transparency, honesty and a little bit of humility — let the audience know that you don't know everything." In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Fauci joins Matt Abrahams to discuss how leaders can communicate more effectively by staying focused on what matters most. From managing uncertainty to handling contentious interactions, they explore how clarity and transparency build trust and drive results. Thank you to our Sponsor Superhuman for offering the TFTS community one month free. Episode Reference Links: Dr. Anthony Fauci Dr. Fauci’s Book: Expect the Unexpected Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:19) - Communication in Crisis (03:25) - Strategies for Building Trust (04:45) - Adapting Messages for Different Audiences (06:50) - Techniques for Effective Communication (08:17) - Managing High-Stakes Communication (10:05) - Addressing Misinformation (11:18) - Impromptu Speaking Skills (14:30) - Managing Conflict in Communication (15:36) - The Final Three Questions (19:27) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    21 min
  2. 177. Don’t Resolve, Evolve: Top 10 Lessons For 2025

    7 JAN

    177. Don’t Resolve, Evolve: Top 10 Lessons For 2025

    Ten essential communication strategies designed to elevate your skills. 2024 has been an incredible year for learning and growth, and as we head into 2025, there’s no better time to reflect on the skills and strategies that can shape our communication and careers. In this special episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Matt Abrahams takes us through ten standout lessons from the past year. These aren’t just ideas to remember — they’re practices to evolve with. From Priya Parker’s insights on generous authority to Huggy Rao’s call to cut through jargon monoxide, each concept highlights how small shifts in mindset and behavior can lead to big transformations. With actionable advice and real-world examples, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you Think Fast, Talk Smart, and communicate better in the year ahead. Thank you to our Sponsor Superhuman for offering the TFTS community one month free. Episode Reference Links: Ep.174 Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful MomentsEp.164 Using "Pre-suasion" to Influence OthersEp.158 Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through CommunicationEp.156 Creative Communication: How Our Design Choices Illustrate Our ValuesEp.148 Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard ConversationsEp.142 Power and Persuasion: Live Insights from Stanford ExpertsEp.137 When Words Aren’t Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal CommunicationEp.138 Speak Your Truth: Why Authenticity Leads to Better CommunicationEp.134 How to Chat with Bots: The Secrets to Getting the Information You Need from AIEp.131 Friction Fixing: How to Use Obstacles to Your Advantage          Ep.120 A Few of Matt’s Favorite Things: 10 Communication Takeaways from 2023's TFTS Episodes Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:18) - Priya Parker: Gatherings And Generous Authority (04:24) - Robert Cialdini: Pre-Suasion (06:10) - Jamil Zaki: Trust Loudly (07:23) - Scott Dorley: Design Your Environment (09:49) - Irv Grousbeck: Brevity Conveys Conviction (11:18) - Michele Gelfand: Mind Your Metaphors (12:48) - Dana Carney: Take Space With Words (14:18) - Julia Minson: Use Hear When In Conflict (16:54) - Jeremy Utley And Kian Gohar: How To Chat With Bots (18:33) - Huggy Rao: Avoid Jargon Monoxide (20:39) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    22 min
  3. 176. From Stereotypes to Synergy: Communicating Across Generations

    31/12/2024

    176. From Stereotypes to Synergy: Communicating Across Generations

    Age diversity and cross-generational synergy can transform an organization. Most of us know age diversity matters in the workplace. But according to UCLA’s Bob McCann, we're thinking about it all wrong: it's not just about having different generations present — it's about creating meaningful connections between them. As director of UCLA's Leadership Communication Program and founder of the McCann Group, McCann has spent years researching intergenerational workplace dynamics. With four to six generations now working side by side, he says there’s never been a better time to create synergies between the old and the young. "There's a tremendous opportunity for meeting and interacting with people who are different than you, for increasing a variety of potential outcomes in business in a positive way, if we can maximize our intergenerational engagement," he says. His research reveals that while many organizations focus on gender and ethnic diversity, age diversity often gets overlooked in DEI initiatives — despite its crucial role in workplace success. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, McCann joins Matt Abrahams to discuss how organizations can move beyond superficial age diversity to create meaningful cross-generational connections. From reverse mentoring programs to shadow boards, they explore practical ways leaders can harness the power of generational difference to drive innovation and collaboration. Episode Reference Links: Bob McCannEp.67 What Is Normal? How Culture Affects Communication StylesEp.21 Words Matter: How to Make Your Communication InclusiveConnect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:01) - Why Generational Interactions Matter (02:54) - What is a Generation? (04:03) - Combating Workplace Ageism (05:21) - Breaking Stereotypes (07:56) - Better Intergenerational Interactions (10:41) - Technology and Training Across Generations (12:26) - The Three Final Questions (18:14) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    20 min
  4. Ask Matt Anything (AMA) 1: Trust, Paraphrasing, and Nonverbal Cues

    26/12/2024 · BONUS

    Ask Matt Anything (AMA) 1: Trust, Paraphrasing, and Nonverbal Cues

    Enjoy this preview of our first Ask Matt Anything (AMA). We are excited to introduce this special edition of Think Fast, Talk Smart, featuring a preview of our first-ever Ask Matt Anything (AMA) episode. Typically, these sessions are exclusive to our Think Fast, Talk Smart Premium members, where Matt Abrahams answers the most pressing communication questions submitted by our premium community. Think Fast, Talk Smart Premium was created to deepen our connection with you and support your growth as effective communicators. Premium members enjoy exclusive benefits like regular full-length AMA episodes, eQuips, or Essential Quick Insight Playlist, early access to events, and more. Beyond this, your membership helps us continue to build a global community dedicated to improving communication skills and advancing careers.If you find this episode helpful, we invite you to join our Think Fast, Talk Smart Premium community to unlock the full library of AMAs, submit your own questions, and gain access to even more tools and resources. Thank you for being part of our journey! You can learn more at fastersmarter.io/premium. Episode Reference Links: Ep.133 From Good to Super: How Supercommunicators Unlock the Language of ConnectionEp.137 When Words Aren’t Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal Communication  Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:35) - Building Trust with Senior Leadership (03:57) - Engaging Large Virtual Audiences (07:45) - Managing Nonverbal Communication (09:55) - Balancing Emotions in Conversations (11:45) - Navigating Status Differences in Meetings (14:50) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    16 min
  5. 175. Mastering Toasts and Tributes: Making Your Words Count

    24/12/2024

    175. Mastering Toasts and Tributes: Making Your Words Count

    Crafting impactful toasts for every occasion. "Almost reflexively, most of us focus in the moment on how others are perceiving us, yet these situations aren't about us at all." Matt Abrahams, host of Think Fast, Talk Smart, shares an excerpt from his book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot, on the art of delivering effective toasts and tributes. With a focus on public speaking in celebratory contexts, he offers a structured approach to crafting meaningful remarks.Matt introduces the WHAT structure—a four-part formula designed to guide speakers through the process. This method helps ensure that the focus remains on the honorees, transforming speeches into gifts for the audience. He further shares tips for refining remarks, including the importance of brevity and the need to prepare for emotional moments. Matt advises, "Be brief and to the point. Long toasts, tributes, or introductions are usually bad ones." He also highlights the significance of setting others up for success, ensuring a smooth flow for subsequent speakers.With insights from his book and practical examples, Matt equips listeners with the tools to deliver impactful toasts and tributes, making these moments memorable for all involved. Audio excerpt courtesy of Simon & Schuster Audio from THINK FASTER, TALK SMARTER by Matt Abrahams, read by the author. Copyright 2023 by Matthew Abrahams LLC. Used with permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc. Episode Reference Links: Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the SpotConnect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:45) - Key Insight: Toasts, Tributes, and Introductions (03:16) - Why it Matters (04:06) - Craft Your Content (05:17) - Step One: Why Are We Here? (06:01) - Step Two: How Are You Connected? (06:52) - Step Three: Anecdotes or Learnings (08:00) - Step Four: Thank (08:42) - Refine Your Remarks (09:09) - Tip One: Be Brief and to the Point (09:59) - Tip Two: Prepare to be Emotional (11:51) - Tip Three: Shine the Spotlight Away From You (12:21) - Tip Four: Make Your Anecdotes Accessible and Appropriate (12:51) - Tip Five: Strive for Unity (14:14) - Tip Six: Set Others Up for Success (15:07) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    17 min
  6. 174. Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful Moments

    17/12/2024

    174. Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful Moments

    Turn any meeting or get-together into a chance for deep connection and collaboration. Whether you’re holding a team meeting or hosting a family get-together, the success of any gathering, says Priya Parker, isn’t about the perfect agenda or venue, but about the intentionality behind how you bring people together. “90% of the success of any gathering happens before anyone enters the room,” says Parker. As the author of The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, and a strategic advisor who has helped organizations worldwide reimagine their gatherings, Parker believes that thoughtful preparation can turn any meeting, whether professional or personal, into a meaningful and memorable experience for all involved. “Intentionality is the first step,” she says, “to pause and ask: why are we doing this? What is the purpose? What is the need in this community or in this classroom or in this team?” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Parker joins Matt Abrahams to explore the art of meaningful gatherings, sharing practical strategies for everything from crafting invitations that prime engagement to designing powerful closings that leave a lasting impact. By being more thoughtful in bringing people together, we can transform ordinary meetings into extraordinary opportunities for connection and collaboration. Episode Reference Links: Priya Parker Priya’s Book: The Art of Gathering Ep.124 Making Meetings Meaningful, Pt. 1: How to Structure and Organize More Effective Gatherings Ep.125 Making Meetings Meaningful, Pt. 2: Key Ingredients for Effective Meetings  Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:29) - Intentionality in Everyday Conversations (03:15) - Questioning the Purpose of Gatherings (05:23) - The Power of Great Questions (08:26) - Managing Heat in Conversations (10:35) - Encouraging Participation Beforehand (13:15) - Creating Impactful Endings (15:41) - The Final Three Questions (18:35) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    20 min
  7. 173. Rethinks: Surviving the Holidays

    10/12/2024

    173. Rethinks: Surviving the Holidays

    Master holiday conversations. The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and, occasionally, communication challenges and as we gather with family, friends, and colleagues, effective communication becomes crucial. To help make this time more enjoyable, this special Think Fast Talk Smart “Rethinks” episode revisits favorite “recipes” from past Stanford guests along with Matt’s advice for tackling three common holiday scenarios: contributing effectively to ongoing conversations, engaging in meaningful small talk, and managing conflict with clarity and empathy. Whether it's making small talk or resolving conflicts, these strategies aim to turn holiday communication hurdles into opportunities for connection and collaboration. Episode Reference Links: Ep.169 Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count  Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:39) - Challenge 1: Inserting Your Voice into Conversations (03:54) - Expert Insights on Inserting Ideas (05:40) - Challenge 2: Mastering Small Talk (07:16) - Expert Strategies for Small Talk (09:18) - Challenge 3: Managing Holiday Conflicts (11:05) - Expert Tips for Conflict Resolution (12:42) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    15 min
  8. Between the Lines: In Storytelling, Simplify to Amplify - Premium Sampler

    05/12/2024 · BONUS

    Between the Lines: In Storytelling, Simplify to Amplify - Premium Sampler

    Visit fastersmarter.io/premium to become a Premium subscriber. "Start with the action moment or right before it," advises Hilary Price whose one-panel comic strips offer insights far beyond humor—they’re lessons in concise storytelling that resonate with anyone seeking to communicate effectively. “Simplify and amplify,” Price advises, emphasizing the art of clarity and impact. Every stroke of her pen strips away the unnecessary, letting the essentials shine through.Creating her daily comic strip, Rhymes with Orange, Price starts with the game of “what if,” merging unexpected ideas to surprise and engage her readers. “You want to start at the action moment—or just before,” she notes, pointing out how the unsaid often speaks louder. Price extends this philosophy beyond cartoons: whether crafting a presentation, a joke, or a story, it’s essential to leave room for the audience to co-create meaning. “Don’t spoon-feed your readers,” she says. “The joy comes from not getting it, then getting it.” In this bonus episode of Think Fast Talk Smart, Price joins host Matt Abrahams to explore the power of surprise, stakes, and shared experience in storytelling—reminding us that the punchline, whether in humor or communication, is where the magic happens. Episode Reference Links: Hilary PriceRhymes With OrangeEp.170 Advice From Nontraditional Storytellers Part 1Ep.171 Advice From Nontraditional Storytellers Part 2 Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:45) - What Makes a Good Story? (03:38) - Crafting a Story (04:58) - Auditioning the Characters (08:02) - Stories in Daily Life (09:50) - Visuals in Storytelling (11:37) - The Power of a Punchline (13:44) - Admired Storytellers (15:41) - Communicating with Titles (17:13) - Conclusion ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

    19 min
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One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication. Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges. Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships. Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.

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