Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
598 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 22min
172. Bring Mindfulness to Your Communication
Marshall Goldsmith, a world-renowned executive coach and author, discusses how mindfulness can revolutionize communication. He highlights the importance of reflection before responding, asking if our words enhance relationships. Goldsmith introduces his “feed forward” method for constructive feedback and shares daily reflective questions that guide us towards living an 'earned life'. He emphasizes that clarity and intentionality in communication lead to personal growth and effective leadership, ultimately fostering deeper connections.
312 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 21min
171. Advice from Nontraditional Storytellers Part 2
Dive into the art of storytelling with experts from magic, TikTok, and comedy. Discover how magicians create immersive experiences that engage the audience's emotions. Learn from a TikTok creator who emphasizes the power of authenticity in connecting with viewers. Enjoy humorous tales that illustrate the importance of positivity and relatability. Finally, explore techniques to win over skeptical audiences with personal stories, proving that true connection makes every performance memorable.
308 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 17min
170. Advice from Nontraditional Storytellers Part 1
Discover the storytelling secrets used by a tech litigator and a cartoonist. Learn how impactful stories begin with compelling hooks and clear premises. Explore the art of simplification that engages readers without over-explaining. Delve into the creative journey behind cartoon making, merging humor with meaningful narratives. Together, these experts reveal how intentional storytelling can transform complex ideas into relatable experiences.
252 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 26min
169. Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count
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.
14 snips
Nov 14, 2024 • 3min
Launching: Think Fast Talk Smart Premium
Discover a new premium membership that aims to elevate your communication and career skills. Enjoy exclusive resources like early access to live events, AMAs, and Essential Quick Insight Playlists. Join a thriving global community to exchange insights and receive valuable feedback. A portion of your membership fee supports charities focused on improving communication worldwide. Sign up before November 21st for a sweet 25% discount and become part of the exclusive Founders Club!
1,105 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 27min
168. How Story Can Change Everything in Your Career
Matthew Dicks, a best-selling novelist and storytelling coach, shares his insights on the art of storytelling in business communication. He believes that narratives can transform ordinary messages into memorable experiences. Dicks emphasizes practical techniques for crafting compelling stories, from setting scenes to creating suspense. He also discusses the importance of reflection in uncovering everyday tales, noting that becoming a better storyteller can elevate one's career and make leaders more engaging.
154 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 25min
167. Hollywood Lessons For Successful Communication
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Small, CEO of Amblin Partners and a guest lecturer at Stanford GSB, delves into the art of storytelling. He highlights how powerful narratives create emotional connections that are essential for effective communication in any context. Small shares insights on navigating conflicts through personal engagement and the significance of face-to-face interactions. He also emphasizes the role of storytelling during times of change, encouraging leaders to embrace vulnerability and foster connections for lasting impact.
172 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 22min
166. Why Relying on Talent Alone Will Fail You
Andrew Luck, former NFL quarterback and Stanford graduate, shares his insights on the crucial role of practice in achieving success. He argues that people don’t just rise to the occasion; they settle for their level of training. Luck discusses how effective communication and preparation can help navigate high-pressure situations, both in sports and personal life. He highlights how deliberate practice fosters psychological safety and trust, essential for building strong relationships and achieving peak performance.
437 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 25min
165. Building Your Personal Brand Makes a Promise: Are You Keeping It?
Seth Godin, a best-selling author and marketing guru, delves into the essence of branding as a promise. He emphasizes that effective communication begins with defining your audience and purpose. Seth argues that branding transcends logos; it’s about understanding expectations and creating connections. He discusses the power of storytelling in engaging audiences and highlights the importance of clarity and authenticity in messaging. Their conversation provides practical insights to help build a meaningful personal brand.
328 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 31min
164. Rethinks: Using "Pre-suasion" to Influence Others
Robert Cialdini, an esteemed psychology and marketing professor, dives into the art of persuasion and 'Pre-suasion.' He explains how to change minds by changing frameworks, effectively priming audiences before delivering messages. Cialdini discusses the intriguing concept of FOMO and how subtle elements, like music, can sway consumer choices. He also reveals how social norms and effective word choices can significantly impact behaviors and perceptions, offering insights into human decision-making that everyone can leverage.
