“Unlock the potential in conversations.”
–Margi Bush
The ability to fully present in a conversation with another person requires understanding common dialogue disasters. Merriam Webster defines dialogue as, “a conversation between two or more persons.”
Think of dialogue as a space in which we meet another person we embark on a great opportunity for discovery, learning and new insights about THEM.
Today, we want to offer up suggestions for honoring another person’s story by understanding where Dialogue Dies. Here are common dialogue disasters:
- One-Upping (“You think that is something, I….”)
- Comparisons (“Why didn’t you try…?”)
- Hijacking (“That reminds me of…”)
- Explanations (“Sounds like are being too….”)
The moment we use one of the above statements, we have not honored someone’s story and have most likely created disconnection between ourselves and them. When common Dialogue Disasters occur, we lose the ability honor their story, create trust and build rapport.
To avoid the F.A.L.L. into Dialogue Disasters, use these tips:
F: Fully present in the conversation
A: Avoid jumping in with your story, instead ask curious questions
L: Listen by being interested in them, not by sounding interesting
L: Learn and avoid Dialogue Disasters.
Let’s take some time to practice having a more effective dialogue with others, honor their story and get to know them better. Our turn to share our story will come at a later time.
We wish you a day of Intent Awareness, Innate Curiosity, and Best Choices for Meaningful Change.
Now go out there and have Great Conversations.