Reflection Assignment

Summary and Understanding “Ten ways to have a better conversation” by Celeste Headlee (TED TALK) ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1vskiVDwl4 )

1. Do not multi-task- This is a key flaw for most people. In the 21st century people tend to be quick to handle other things while at the same time trying to strike a meaningful conversation. Quite a lot of my friends really do this most of the time.

2. Do not pontificate- This is generally not my weak point. I always give the other person the chance to help me actually understand things better since am a believer that each and every person is an expert at something. Being dogmatic is usually a big turn-off.

3. Use open-ended questions- Letting the listeners give you a more of an experiential answer is the best way to go when striking a conversation. Personally I would say this is a recently acquired taste.

4. Go with the flow- With the same zeal of letting ideas come in, let them go too. Do not let them be interruptive. Am sure so many people actually have experienced such moments depending on the environment the conversation is being held as well as depending on their state of mind at the time of the conversation.

5. If you do not know, say that you do not know- It’s as simple as do not be a know-it-all person. This kind of attitude in more than one bit always kills the conversation. I have frequently experienced such conversations and I must admit more than often I usually drift away.

6. Do not equate experiences – This is the point where you think you understand somebody’s experience better than themselves. It is flatly impossible. Back in the day I used to be very guilty of this flaw. Am glad I stopped and let someone tell their own experience without hijacking it.

7. Try not to repeat yourself- Speak and be forthright with whatever you are saying. The moment you start repeating your points, you will definitely be boring and the other person will quickly opt out of the conversation. I have a friend who actually suffers from this flaw. He always repeats himself day in day out.

8. Stay out of the wits – Forget the minor details, years, dates. Keep the conversation intact by maintaining the core of information intact. Another big flaw that I occasionally struggle with. Am glad it was highlighted here.

9. Listen- The biggest skill of a successful conversation is when you both listen and understand each other. If neither of you can listen then definitely what you are having is not a conversation but probably a shouting match. Over the years I have developed my listening skills and I can confidently say am a good and keen listener, the attribute has made me strike some good conversations with great minds over the years.

10. Be brief – Always understand your audience or the other person(s) in a conversation. Depending on the setting of the conversation and your understanding of the audience always be brief and maintain interest so as to strike a balance and drive your points home.