The #1 Skill Harvard Says You MUST HAVE to Open More Doors & Deepen Relationships

Dec 25, 2025

Discover the art of conversation as a learnable skill that deepens connections. Explore the TALK framework, which emphasizes thoughtful topics, asking questions, and levity to foster trust. Learn how remembering details can strengthen relationships and how asking the right questions can make you more likable. Dive into the importance of creating emotional safety and the transformative power of well-structured conversations for networking and opportunities. Get ready to elevate every dialogue you engage in!

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INSIGHT

Conversation Is A Learnable Superpower

Conversation skill shapes who you meet, who trusts you, and what doors open.
Lori Harder highlights that conversation is a learnable skill, not just charisma.

ADVICE

Use The TALK Framework

Use the TALK framework: Topics, Asking, Levity, Kindness to structure conversations.
Intentionally applying TALK speeds depth and increases trust with others.

ADVICE

Prepare Better Topics Than Small Talk

Prepare thoughtful, non-surface topics to avoid lazy small talk.
Ask questions like "What's something you're excited about right now?" to open richer dialogue.

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I went on one of those rare, unstructured walks where I listened to the Diary of a CEO podcast on the science of conversation, and it completely changed how I think about connection. In this episode, I share my biggest takeaways from Harvard behavior expert Alison Wood Brooks on why the way you communicate isn’t a personality trait, it’s a skill. I break down the TALK framework and how a few shifts in the way you ask questions, listen, and respond can change who trusts you, who wants to work with you, and who wants to stay connected to you. Get ready to rethink how you show up in every conversation you have.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Why great conversations are a learned skill, not a personality trait.
The TALK framework that creates instant connection and trust.
Why asking better follow-up questions makes people like you more.
The common conversation mistake that kills connection.
How deeper conversations lead to better relationships, sales, and opportunities.

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