In this engaging discussion, Alison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor specializing in conversation science, shares her insights on making small talk meaningful. She emphasizes that small talk isn’t just filler; it’s a vital step to deeper connections. Using her 'topic pyramid' approach, Brooks provides strategies to elevate mundane exchanges into memorable conversations, viewing them as treasure hunts for significant insights. She highlights the role of active listening and adapting conversational styles to achieve relational goals.

Leslie K. John and Alison Wood Brooks, both professors at Harvard Business School and co-authors of "The Surprising Power of Questions," explore how effective questioning can transform workplace communication. They discuss techniques for asking better questions to strengthen trust and collaboration within teams. Listeners will learn about the impact of open-ended versus closed questions, the art of navigating mixed goals in conversations, and the role of active listening in fostering deeper connections. It's a masterclass on leveraging questions for success!

As a communication expert, Alison Wood Brooks spends a lot of time talking about talking. But, as she says, listening is just as important.“My course is called TALK,” says Wood Brooks, who is the O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at Harvard Business School. “The great irony is that it should really be called LISTEN. It’s hard to be a good listener yet so very important.”In the latest episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wood Brooks covers conversation strategies for active listening, turning anxiety into excitement, and knowing when it’s time to change the subject.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 >>> LinkedIn ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor and author, delves into the science of conversation. She shares tools for parents to help children, regardless of their social nature, build essential communication skills. Topics include using humor to engage in serious discussions and reframing anxiety into excitement. Brooks emphasizes the significance of active listening and personalized topics to strengthen connections. She also provides strategies to empower anxious kids and navigate tough conversations, ensuring children thrive socially and emotionally.

Learn how to navigate the challenges of being a first-time boss, including managing older employees, balancing likability and competence, and handling feelings of unreadiness in leadership roles. Get insights on building trust with older subordinates, maintaining professionalism while being open, and managing the warmth and competence balance in leadership. Explore the value of staying out of the corporate ladder race and finding the right career advancement boundaries, while also dealing with career uncertainties in managerial roles.