Understanding Conversation…

In this fast-growing world, everyone is busy learning and developing their skills so that they can work smoothly and effectively and get a job of their interest. But often, people forget to learn the most basic skills, like –

 

 

 

So, today let us talk about talking! Do you know there are five Ds of conversation, a thumb rule of conversation! what is a conversation? The five D’s of conversation and the thumb rule of conversation! There is also a way to make your conversations more impactful and memorable! So, lets dive in to it and find out what is conversation?

 

What is Conversation?

 

A conversation is a chat between two or more people in which thoughts, feelings, and ideas are expressed, questions are asked and answered, or news and information are exchanged. Also, it is an informal communication between the sender and the receiver. An example of a conversation is two friends talking while having coffee together about the influence of social media.

 

 

 

 

Discourse – is a conversation that aims to deliver information from the speaker/writer to the listeners/readers. For example - a teacher giving a lecture on Economic development or a presentation given by a student on motivation.

 

Diatribe – is a conversation in which the main aim is to express emotions and make sure that the person who is disagreeing with you understands your point and also encourages those who agree with you and share the same opinion.

 

Discussion – is a conversation that is done on a specific topic. It is a process of talking about a topic to reach a decision and exchange ideas with other people. For example, the principal discussing the rules and regulations of the annual gathering with the teacher in charge.

 

Debate – is a conversation that aims to convince someone who is not agreeing with you or it also aims at winning an argument. For example, two friends from different parties arguing over politics.

 

Dialogue – is a conversation in which people exchange information and build a good relationship with each other. For example, two classmates talking to each other about their future goals.

 

 

 

 

I think this is the most common proverb ‘practice makes a man perfect’ which means if you continuously practice something, the more efficient you will become which will help you in achieving your targets.

And that’s what the rule says!

 

 

The best practice for an effective conversation is the conversation itself!

 

So, what is an effective conversation?

 

The famous definition given by Albert Robinson is that

 

"An effective conversation is a process of exchanging ideas, thoughts, knowledge, and information in a manner, that the purpose or intention is fulfilled and a bridge of understanding is created."

 

In this definition, he explains that a conversation is effective when a good understanding is built between the speaker and the receiver, and the process of exchanging ideas and thoughts is done smoothly!

 

 

 

 

Being Sure of What You Heard – Always make sure that whatever you are listening to is correct or not. Whatever the speaker is trying to tell you, make sure that you are understanding the same thing. Always try to be sure of what you have heard.

 

Asking for Confirmation – If you have overheard some words of the speaker then always ask for confirmation so that there is no misunderstanding between you too.

 

Make it two-way – A conversation is always two-way; always keep in mind to allow the person you are talking to, to speak as well. Do not just keep talking because if you don’t allow the person to talk it is not a conversation!

 

Change The Subject with The Transitional Phase – Always change the subject with a transitional phrase. Now you all must be wondering what is a transitional phrase? Transitional phrases are the words that help the speaker to move from one sentence to another, for example to illustrate, to demonstrate, etc.

 

Occasionally Called the Name of the Person – To make a conversation effective, try to call the name of the person whom u are speaking to occasionally as it allows the attention of the speaker.

 

Always Be Courteous – Always try to be polite and courteous with a person you are speaking to. This helps in building a positive relationship between the speaker and the receiver.

 

Avoid cliché – The most important point to remember in this list is to avoid cliché. Always try to reframe your sentence in your mind and then speak.

 

Don't Use Repetitive Words and Phrases – Avoid using repetitive words and phrases as it shows that you are not interested in the conversation and the bridge of understating between you and your speaker becomes weaker and weaker.

 

Control Strong Emotions – Do not overreact if a person says something surprising. Try to control your emotions as much as possible. Also, don’t be over expressive while talking.

 

Let us know in the comments section below when are you developing your conversational skills?