Conversational Skills 1

You show good judgment when you decide in advance what someone is saying and then tune him out.

Even though that upsets me, I’ll think about what you said and get back to you.

Listening is just as important as speaking.

I just got back from doing errands. I’m exhausted. I went to the grocery store, ate at the deli, and then went to the bank. I like to get out and get things done, but sometimes it really wears me out.

Come over here a minute so I can whisper something to you without anyone else hearing.

I really don’t want to fi ght about this, but you’re being so unreasonable!

In the middle of a conversation, it’s important that your comments relate to what the speaker is saying.

How many of you have seen the new Harrison Ford movie?

No, I’m not going to listen to you because I don’t think you know what you’re talking about.

Let’s ask George what he thinks about this problem.

Don’t ask him. He never knows what he’s talking about.

When the speaker pauses for a breath, it’s a good time to jump in and say what you’re thinking.

It’s okay to let your mind wander, as long as you return your attention to the speaker before he’s fi nished.

Last night I watched a comedy show. It was really funny. The older daughter came home with her new husband, and they got together with each of their families. It was funny to watch them meet one another.

I just returned from the grocery store. I saw Melvin in the parking lot. He was loading cartons into his trunk. I ate at the deli. Sara was there too. Then I went to the bank.

How many of you have had this same experience?

You’ve been doing some things lately that really bother me. Do you have some time to talk to me today?

As long as you’re willing to listen to me, I’ll hear you out.

Listening involves much more than just hearing the speaker’s words.

Last night I watched a comedy show. It was really funny. I liked it better than the one that came on just before it. The show has a new beginning now. It seems longer than the old one. I don’t really know, but it was really funny to see the

Your ability to learn is improved when you use good listening skills.

You sound like a broken record. Give it a break, okay?

Poor eye contact may make the speaker think you aren’t listening to what she’s saying.

I know it was last week that I went to the state fair. I know it because it was after I talked to you on the phone. The weather was nice, and the exhibits were interesting. I went to the state fair last year too. Have you ever gone to the s

Hold on a minute there, Myra. Nobody asked you for your opinion.

Watching someone’s eyes, body posture, and expressions can give you important information on how well he’s listening to you.

I think that was a pretty stupid remark.