316. Unlocking the Secrets to Better Conversations with HBS Professor Alison Wood Brooks

316: Unlocking the Secrets to Better Conversations

Guest: Alison Wood Brooks, author and Harvard Business School Professor

THIS WEEK’S TOPIC: Communication is a complex and essential skill, often marred by self-doubt and missteps. Despite feeling proficient in many areas of life, people commonly perceive themselves as less effective conversationalists. This concern inspired this week’s guest — Professor Alison Wood Brooks — who dives into the nuances of effective communication. Her insights are invaluable if you’re looking to prepare better for conversations, improve your listening skills, or easily navigate tricky dialogues.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST: Alison Wood Brooks, a renowned professor at Harvard Business School, focuses on behavioral science and real-life conversation. Her journey as an identical twin and an academic has given her unique insights into interpersonal communication. In her latest book, “TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves,” Brooks offers a practical framework for enhancing conversations, making her guidance accessible and relatable.

KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: 

WHY WE THINK WE’RE BELOW AVERAGE AT CONVERSATION: Professor Brooks explains why people often undervalue their conversational skills and how rumination over past interactions plays a role.

THE T.A.L.K. FRAMEWORK: Learn about this memorable acronym designed by Brooks to improve your conversational abilities:

• T: Topics – choosing engaging subjects.
• A: Asking – prioritizing asking more and better questions.
• L: Levity – keeping conversations enjoyable with humor and warmth.
• K: Kindness – focusing on actions and thoughts that convey kindness.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ASKING QUESTIONS: Brooks emphasizes the critical role of asking questions, viewing those who rarely ask any as “ZQs” or zero question askers. She shares research from various contexts, like speed dating and sales, illustrating that more questions generally lead to better outcomes.

FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS AS CONVERSATIONAL SUPERHEROES: Discover why follow-up questions demonstrate genuine interest and encourage deeper sharing, enhancing the overall quality of interactions.

PREPARATION FOR CONVERSATIONS: Unveil the benefits of preparing for conversations, ranging from reducing anxiety to ensuring smoother exchanges, even in challenging discussions.

TACKLING DIGITAL COMMUNICATION: With many interactions shifting to digital platforms, Brooks offers tips on improving online conversations by incorporating elements from face-to-face interactions, such as richer information exchange and quick, meaningful responses.

NEGOTIATION CONVERSATIONS: Brooks shares her insights on the best practices for negotiation, stressing the importance of asking questions, active listening, and staying open to opposing viewpoints.

We’re excited to hear your thoughts! Please share your feedback with us.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN EPISODE 316:

• Pre-order Professor Alison Wood Brooks’ book “TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves” (releasing January 21, 2025)

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