by Laura Camacho
As a formerly-awkward person who still gets stumped in conversations, here are some of my go-to phrases and questions to get the conversation moving in a more productive way.
1. When you’re in a conversation and you can’t think of what to say.
You are so interesting. Tell me more.
2. When the other person is confusing or not taking responsibility.
Help me understand exactly how that happened.
3. When you need your employee (or offspring) to step up and do something.
So what are you going to do to - (fill in your success imperative)?
So, what are you going to do to be on time while the construction is going on?
So, what are you going to do to not forget your lunch again?
So, what are you going to do to keep a good attitude when we tried this before and it didn’t work?
4. When someone is complaining to you or around you.
How can I help?
5. When someone admits to underperforming in some way.
What could you change to ensure your success in the future?
6. When you want to have a productive one-on-one with an employee.
How can I help you be more successful?
7. When you are accused of playing favorites (aka “working with the willing.”)
Absolutely! Would you like to be one?
8. When you want to improve a work relationship.
How can I better communicate with you?
9. When you’re about to begin a presentation.
I’m so excited to be here with you.
10. When you want the quiet ones to speak up at a meeting.
What other perspectives do we have in this room?
Word choices matter. Now you have a quick reference guide to get you through any challenging conversation!
Laura Camacho, MBA, PhD, PMP, is an executive coach, trainer and speaker who opened Mixonian Institute in 2009 to rid the world of boring business communication. She has created innovative training programs for local and international companies, related to leadership effectiveness, excellent feedback, growth mindset and emotional intelligence. Multilingual, Dr. Camacho’s career highlights include facilitating The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People (in Spanish,) being editor of the leading management newsletter in Venezuela. For 10 years she taught communication classes at ECU and College of Charleston. www.mixonian.com
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