Workplace conversations have the power to inspire, connect, and drive real progress. Yet too often, they fall short. Meetings drag on without purpose, or conversations skim the surface and leave important ideas and topics behind. Previously, we explored why meaningful conversations matter and how they can transform teams by fostering trust, collaboration, and growth.
Now, it’s time to take that understanding a step further. By mastering self-expression, effective listening, and genuine connection via actionable techniques, we can turn every conversation into an opportunity to strengthen relationships, boost morale, and more. Let’s dive into nine practical ways to make your workplace conversations truly impactful.
1. Ask helpful questions and phrase them well
Questions should pique the interest of every party in a conversation, so choose topics that everyone is motivated to talk about. Phrasing is also key - ask open-ended questions to encourage people to elaborate rather than simply replying with a “yes” or a “no.” An easy way to practice asking open-ended questions is by starting your questions with "who, what, when, why, where, or how".
2. Listen with curiosity
Approach every conversation to understand the other people through curiosity. Ask follow-up questions, listen actively, and show that you’re intrigued by what you’re hearing. If you are a big talker, listening more than you talk is also a good rule of thumb to allow everyone to share their thoughts.
3. Find a compliment or common ground
If you are unsure how to start a conversation or keep one going, find similarities between you and your coworkers to evoke excitement and genuine interest. Alternatively, begin a conversation with a compliment to break the ice and get the dialogue going.
4. Don’t multitask
Multitasking is a myth - we can’t effectively perform multiple tasks at once. Therefore, make sure your attention is only on your conversation by getting rid of any distractions and avoiding interruptions. Not only does this show your colleague that you respect them and the dialogue, but it also allows the conversation to evolve.
5. Embrace constructive feedback
Practice receiving and giving praise and suggestions for improvements. Exchanging feedback regularly creates more robust relationships at work, allowing us to eliminate biases, reflect on our work and behavior, and uplift and support our peers.
6. Be ready to be vulnerable
The “norm of reciprocity” suggests that sharing something personal with someone will encourage the other person to do the same to keep the interaction balanced. It can be difficult to open up and share personal details when meeting new people or talking to folks we don’t know very well. Keep in mind that we feel more connected when we become more vulnerable, so don’t be afraid to share some personal thoughts as long as they continue to be reciprocated by the other person.
7. Show up prepared
Conversations with new peers run much smoother when we take some time to learn about them, their interests, the topic at hand, or their background before being introduced. If possible, do your research before striking up a conversation so that you can have a well-informed talk or meeting.
8. Be mindful of body language
Engage in conversations by directly facing your peers, putting away your phone or other items you might fidget with, and maintaining eye contact. These small details make a huge difference in making our coworkers feel valued and respected while subtly communicating focus and interest in the conversation.
9. Encourage everyone to participate
Especially in meetings, a few voices can easily take over conversations and drown out reserved team members. If you're leading a meeting or participating in one, elicit thoughts from team members who don’t participate much in the conversation. Ask to hear their experience or expertise on subjects so that conversations remain inclusive.
Try these tips and techniques in your next meeting, one-on-one conversation, or group discussion. Also, consider passing on some of these tips to your team members and watch collaboration and empowerment grow!
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