Ever feel like you just can’t connect with your coworkers? Ever wondered what’s the difference between communication and conversation? You’re not alone. Striking up genuine conversation with people at work can be challenging. But mastering the art of conversation can change your relationships and transform your workplace experience.
Communication gets the job done, but conversation is what builds understanding. When you make the effort to engage your colleagues in meaningful dialog, you’ll find common ground and discover shared interests. You’ll strengthen bonds, gain new insights, and open up opportunities.
While chatting with coworkers may seem intimidating, especially for introverts or shy people, everyone has the ability to carry an engaging conversation. With a little practice, you’ll be networking and collaborating in no time. Read on for 10 tips to help you master the art of conversation at work.
Understanding the Difference Between Communication and Conversation
Communication and conversation are not the same. Communication is simply the exchange of information, while conversation implies a genuine connection and building of understanding between people.
What makes a good conversation?
A good conversation should:
- Flow smoothly, with both parties actively listening and responding
- Cover topics that both parties are interested in
- Create rapport and help build connections
- Leave both parties feeling engaged and energized
10 Tips to Succeed at Workplace Conversations
To master the art of conversation in the workplace, follow these 10 tips:
Listen Actively
Pay close attention to the speaker by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and avoiding distractions. Ask follow up questions to show you understand and are engaged. Listening is one of the most important skills in building workplace relationships.
Share Information About Yourself Too
While listening is key, don’t be afraid to share details about yourself to build rapport and connection. Talk about your interests, hobbies, experiences, etc. Find common ground and bonding points.
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Ask questions that encourage detailed responses, not just yes or no answers. “How did that big project go?” or “What are your goals for the next quarter?” are great examples.
Compliment Sincerely
Offer genuine praise and appreciation for a job well done. People will appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness. But be sincere. Empty flattery will seem insincere.
Use Appropriate Humor
Make casual jokes or witty comebacks to lighten the mood and make connections. But avoid off-color or insensitive humor at all costs. Know your audience.
Watch Your Body Language
Maintain enthusiastic, open body language. Make eye contact, smile, face the speaker, and avoid crossed arms. Your body language and tone should match your words.
Follow Up
If there are any commitments or next steps from your conversation, be sure to follow through. Send a quick email to reiterate key discussion points. Your thoughtfulness and dependability will be remembered.
Respect Personal Boundaries
Be sensitive to people’s comfort levels with casual conversation, especially when you first meet. Some people may be shyer or more introverted. Respect others’ boundaries and let them warm up to talking in their own time.
Find Common Ground
Look for shared interests, experiences, values or goals as a way to build rapport. Our similarities form connections, so highlight them when conversing with colleagues.
Spread Positive Feelings
Having a positive, optimistic attitude and sharing that outlook with others is highly contagious. Make people feel good after talking with you. Your positive energy will make an impression.
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How Mastering Conversation Helps Introverts and Shy People
Being shy or introverted doesn’t mean you can’t master the art of conversation. In fact, honing this soft skill can be even more valuable for those who prefer less social interaction. Here are some tips to help introverts and shy individuals strengthen their conversation skills:
Start with small talk
Ease into deeper discussions by beginning with some light chitchat about shared interests or surroundings. Ask open-ended questions to get the discussion flowing. Starting small allows you to become comfortable before diving into more meaningful dialog.
Listen actively
Focus the conversation on the other person by listening intently and asking follow-up questions. People will appreciate your genuine interest in them, and you’ll gain valuable insights. Active listening also takes the spotlight off of you, reducing anxiety.
Prepare some questions in advance
Having some pre-planned questions or discussion points in your back pocket can help avoid awkward silences if the conversation lulls. Do some research on the person or topic in advance and come equipped with thoughtful questions.
Don’t be afraid to share
While listening is key, you should open up when you feel comfortable. Share details about your experiences, perspectives, and interests. Speaking about topics you’re passionate about will make the conversation flow more naturally. Keep responses balanced, and always bring the focus back to the other speaker.
Follow up appropriately
If you connect with someone new, reach out within a day or two to express your enjoyment of speaking with them. Mention something specific you discussed, and suggest meeting up again or continuing the conversation. Following up is a great way for introverts to build new relationships in a low-pressure manner.
With regular practice, these conversation skills will become second nature. You will be able to build closer connections, gain confidence in social settings, and may even come to enjoy small talk. So don’t be afraid to start a dialog—you have more to gain than you realize!
Read More: 10 Easy Tips To Stay Motivated At Work Even On The Hardest Days
Conclusion
Start small by listening more and judging less. Ask open-ended questions to get the dialog flowing. Share a little about yourself too, in an authentic way. Practice active listening to show you’re fully engaged. Compliment others sincerely. Most of all, relax – conversation should be enjoyable, not an interrogation!
With regular practice of these techniques, conversing at work will become second nature. You’ll strengthen relationships, gain valuable insights, and who knows – you may even make a new friend or two along the way. The art of conversation has power – use it well!