What makes a good conversation? Is it simply talking, or is it something deeper? A good conversationalist knows it’s about connection, active listening, and being memorable. Whether you're learning how to have good conversations, figuring out how to start small talk, or improving your communication skills, the key lies in understanding the purpose behind each interaction. Knowing the 'why' helps you engage in goal-oriented communication and ensures that you don’t stray too far from the objective of the conversation. Join Matt Abrahams on this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, as he sits down to explore the key elements of effective conversations with Professor Alison Wood Brooks of the Harvard Business School. Together, they share valuable insights on: 1. How to have good conversations? 2. How to start (and sustain) small talk? 3. How to remember conversations better? 4. Are you asking too many questions in conversations? 5. What are goal-oriented conversations? 6. How to switch context seamlessly in conversations? 7. Why is listening important in communication? Using the tools and techniques discussed in this episode, you will be able to start small talk, sustain it, and - most importantly, turn it into a conversation that is truly engaging, purposeful, and unforgettable! Key Quotes • “Every conversation starts with a sentence.” - Alison Wood Brooks (02:41) • “The trick actually isn't avoiding small talk. It's about making sure you don't get stuck there too long.” - Alison Wood Brooks (04:18) • “The question becomes, not only how do we do small talk better in digital modalities, but how do we toggle from looking down at a screen or looking at a computer screen and then turning our eyes and meeting the gaze of real human beings.” - Alison Wood Brooks (17:31) Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:05 What Makes a Good Conversation? 04:43 The Topic Pyramid of Small Talk 09:21 Alison Answers Audience Questions 19:08 The Importance of Listening in Communication 22:49 Think Fast Talk Smart Premium 23:47 Conclusion Relevant Links: Alison Wood Brooks ( ) Alison Wood Brooks’s Book: ‘Talk’ ( Episode Transcript: 169. Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count ( ) Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning: ( ) Think Fast Talk Smart Premium: ( Episode References: 73. Listen Up: Why It’s Better to Be Interested Than Interesting Website: YouTube: 89. Listen, Listen, Listen: How to Build Deep Connections Website: YouTube: Connect with us: Premium Signup: Email Questions & Feedback: hello@ LinkedIn: ( ) Instagram ( ) YouTube ( @ThinkFastTalkSmart) Matt Abrahams on LinkedIn ( )