Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Whether you're looking to boost your productivity, find more joy in your work, or simply be more present in the moment, you need flow — and research by Assistant Professor David Melnikoff could help you find it. Melnikoff investigates how we pursue our goals, and how flow — the state of being totally immersed and engaged in what we’re doing — can help us achieve them. According to him, flow isn’t necessarily about enjoying a task or activity for its own sake, but more about the process of discovery that unfolds as we take action in the face of uncertainty. “The source of flow is engaging in an activity that allows you to reduce uncertainty about your future, engaging in actions that reduce possible future outcomes, or ideally, eliminate all possible future outcomes except for one,” he says. With each action that we take, the path before us narrows, leading us more directly to the goal that we’ve set. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Melnikoff shares why uncertainty presents us with the opportunity to step into the flow state, to experience more focus and engagement, and to supercharge our goal pursuit and performance Episode Reference Links: WebsiteDr. Laurie SantosThe Happiness Lab Podcast — Dr. Laurie SantosWebsiteYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeConnect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Host Matt Abraham welcomes guest David Melnikoff, an assistant professor of organizational behavior at Stanford GSB and an expert on flow and goal achievement. (00:00:40) Understanding Flow and Its Benefits The definition of flow and the reversal of the usual dynamic of goal pursuit. (00:02:20) Achieving and Maintaining Flow Misconceptions about achieving flow and the role of reducing uncertainty in engaging activities. (00:06:22) Flow in Business and Leadership Applying flow principles to business, emphasizing the structuring of tasks and goals to induce flow through uncertainty reduction. (00:08:39) Personal Applications of Flow for Goal Pursuit How to utilize flow principles to set and achieve goals with advice on framing tasks to maximize uncertainty and flow. (00:11:03) Collaborative Flow and Communication The potential for shared flow experiences in collaborative settings and the role of communication in facilitating flow. (00:13:05) Goal Setting and Achievement Advice Advice on goal setting, advocating for goals with a degree of uncertainty to enhance engagement and likelihood of entering a flow state. (00:14:43) The Final Three Questions David Melnikoff shares how he invites flow into his life, a communicator he admires, and his recipe for communication. (00:16:17) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the way you communicate, to the way build your life and career, Graham Weaver, MBA ’99, says it’s about “giving yourself permission to fully be yourself. You can never go wrong when you’re saying your truth.” Weaver is a lecturer in management, a GSB alum, and the founder and a partner of Alpine Investors. He stresses the importance of direct communication, highlighting how avoiding it can lead to wasted time, energy, and even financial losses. Reflecting on his own experiences in private equity, Weaver admits to struggling with being conflict-averse and not speaking his truth directly, which resulted in getting into bad deals and big losses for his company. “People think that by being indirect, they’re being kind, but all they're doing is creating confusion,” he says. “Clarity is compassionate. Even if it's not what they want to hear, the more direct and clear you can be, the more compassionate that is for the other person.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Weaver and host Matt Abrahams explore how being true to oneself not only fosters personal fulfillment but also enables us to show up better for others. Authenticity and self-belief lay the foundation for effective communication, leadership, and ultimately, success. We are nominated for a prized Webby award. We'd really appreciate you voting for us at: fastersmarter.io/webby Voting ends on April 18th. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteLast Lecture Series: How to Live an Asymmetric LifeH. Irving GrousbeckYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeWebsiteConnect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Matt Abrahams introduces guest Graham Weaver, a Stanford alum and lecturer in management at GSB. (00:0:43) Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Skills in Business How skills like understanding personal dreams and overcoming limiting beliefs play a critical role in business success. (00:04:58) Living an Asymmetrical Life Living an asymmetrical life, including the importance of doing hard things, pursuing your passions, committing long-term, and writing your own story. (00:10:10) Lessons from Taylor Swift Business and personal inspiration from Taylor Swift's response to professional setbacks, highlighting her work ethic and resilience. (00:13:04) Personal Growth and Enlightenment Graham’s journey towards enlightenment and the practices he adopts to improve his personal and professional life. (00:16:08) The Final Three Questions Graham shares what differentiates an exceptional from average leader, a communicator he admires and his ingredients for successful communication. (00:21:05) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If communication is like painting, words are the primary colors. But to convey deeper meaning, we need a broader color palette, which Dana Carney says requires the mastery of nonverbal communication. We often focus on the words that we say when honing our communication, but according to Carney, there are many instances “where nonverbals start to be more meaningful than verbals.” A professor at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and the George Quist Chair in Business Ethics, Carney researches the nonverbal ways in which we communicate our biases, our preferences, our power, and our status. As Carney explores in her forthcoming book, The Five Nonverbal Rules of Power, there are several key areas of nonverbal behavior that we need to grasp in order to fully tap our potential as communicators. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, she and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to read the nonverbal communication of others — and how to gain control of the nonverbals we express to the world. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Each episode provides concrete, easy-to-implement tools and techniques to help you hone and enhance your communication skills. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteWebsiteYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeConnect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Matt Abrahams introduces guest Dana Carney, an expert in nonverbal communication. (00:01:12) Understanding Nonverbal Communication Foundational aspects of nonverbal communication, dividing it into perception and expression, and emphasizing the importance of facial expressions and body language. (00:02:11) The Nonverbal Rules of Power How nonverbal communication influences perceptions of power and status and the concept of the "five nonverbal rules of power". (00:04:37) Cultural and Contextual Variations The impact of culture and context on nonverbal cues, discussing how cultural differences can alter the interpretation of behaviors such as eye contact and proximity. (00:08:10) The Balance Between Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Verbal versus nonverbal communication and its significance especially in contexts where honesty or bias might be in question. (00:09:15) Achieving Communication Goals Through Nonverbals How understanding nonverbal cues can help individuals achieve specific social interaction goals. (0012:51) Enhancing Nonverbal Communication Skills Practical advice for becoming more aware of one's nonverbal communication, including self-observation and seeking feedback from others. (00:16:13) The Final Three Questions Dana shares a nonverbal behavior that demonstrates confidence, a communicator she admires, and her recipe for successful communication. (00:21:09) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Disagreement and conflict may look the same on the surface, but the two concepts are, in fact, very different. According to Julia Minson, knowing how these notions differ is crucial to how you approach them. In this episode of Think Fast Talk Smart, Minson and strategic communication lecturer Matt Abrahams delve into the intricacies of conflict and disagreement. Minson, an associate professor of public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School and Stanford University alumna, also shares her expertise on decision-making and conflict negotiation. Minson emphasizes the need for genuine curiosity and receptiveness in communication to foster productive dialogue. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Each episode provides concrete, easy-to-implement tools and techniques to help you hone and enhance your communication skills. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteUnderestimating Counterparts’ Learning Goals Impairs Conflictual ConversationsTo have better disagreements, change your wordsWebsiteYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeConnect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Matt introduces guest Julia Minson, who is an expert in decision-making, conflict negotiation, and the psychology of disagreement. (00:00:54) Journey into Conflict and Disagreement Research Julia gives insight into her background and what led her to research disagreement and conflict. (00:01:55) Distinguishing Between Disagreement and Conflict The difference between disagreement and conflict, and why understanding this distinction is crucial for effective communication. (00:04:12) Strategies for Disagreeing Better Practical advice on how to disagree constructively without escalating to conflict, focusing on expressing and acting with curiosity. (00:07:05) Demonstrating Curiosity and Conversational Receptiveness Tactics for showing curiosity and conversational receptiveness, including using the HEAR acronym to maintain constructive dialogues. (00:14:38) Managing Conflict Managing and navigating conflict, emphasizing emotional readiness and the importance of choosing battles wisely. (00:18:25) The Final Three Questions Julia shares personal experiences with conflict and disagreement, a communicator she admires, and her recipe for successful communication. (00:22:48) Conclusion swhyuSEcgmbk3s61xnk7vDzvceasb3fg7vcazb1 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why deep connection with others starts by connecting more deeply with ourselves. How are you feeling right now? According to Celine Teoh, we all need to ask ourselves that question more often — and be more precise in how we answer it. Teoh is a facilitator of the course Interpersonal Dynamics, one of Stanford Graduate School of Business’s most iconic classes. In her work with students and as a CEO coach, Teoh encourages people to get better acquainted with their feelings. “Feelings are data,” she says. “In the rest of our logical lives, we would never make decisions on bad or highly abstract data. But we’ll do that with feelings.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast, Teoh and host Matt Abrahams discuss how developing greater emotional awareness can help us achieve more agency and empathy in our personal and professional lives. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Each episode provides concrete, easy-to-implement tools and techniques to help you hone and enhance your communication skills. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteInterpersonal DynamicsConnect - Building Exceptional RelationshipsThe Gottman InstituteYouTubeWebsite Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest Celine Teoh and the episodes' focus on the value of emotions in communication. (00:01:09) Discovering Self Through Interpersonal Dynamics Overview of the Interpersonal Dynamics course at Stanford GSB, also known as "touchy feely" (00:03:48) Integrating “Touchy Feely” in Logical and Action-Oriented Environments Incorporating empathy and emotional connection in organizations that prioritize logic and action. (00:05:47) Enhancing Connection and Empathy Advice on building connections with others, including the importance of being clear and embracing vulnerability. (00:08:36) Managing Conflict with Empathy Approaching challenges and conflict at work in a way that maintains and strengthens relationships. (00:11:29) Enhancing Empathy, Feedback, and Communication Skills Guidance for improving empathy, seeking feedback, and honing communication skills. (00:13:52) The Final Three Questions Celine Teoh shares the best communication advice she has received, a communicator she admires, and outlines her first three ingredients for successful communication. (00:17:07) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leveraging AI to unlock new levels of creativity and communication innovation Join Matt Abrahams with creativity and innovation experts Jeremy Utley and Kian Gohar to explore the transformative potential of AI in the realms of creativity and problem-solving. If you treat artificial intelligence like an oracle, you’ll likely be disappointed. But if you treat it like a teammate, Utley and Gohar say you’ll be surprised just how helpful a collaborator it can be. Utley, an adjunct professor at the Stanford d.school, and Gohar, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and futurist, have researched how teams can integrate AI into existing workflows to generate more creative ideas and streamline problem-solving. As they’ve found, large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT can be powerful tools for innovation. But without knowing how to implement them, “Most teams leave the vast majority of their innovation potential on the table,” Utley says. In a new white paper, he and Gohar illuminate the path teams can take to use generative AI as a “conversation partner” and transform their brainstorming efforts as a result. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Utley and Gohar discuss how innovators can stop viewing AI as a magic 8-ball, and start treating it as a companion — one ready to roll up its sleeves and dig deep for new ideas. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Each episode provides concrete, easy-to-implement tools and techniques to help you hone and enhance your communication skills. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteIdeaflowWebsiteGeolabCompeting In The New World Of WorkFIXITDon’t Let Gen AI Limit Your Team’s CreativityYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeWebsitePeggy NoonanDeclarations at The Wall Street JournalSam HornTongue Fu!: How to Deflect, Disarm, and Defuse Any Verbal Conflict Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction to Utley & Gohar Matt Abrahams introduces guests Jeremy Utley and Kian Gohar, and their respective books. (00:01:02) Motivation Behind the Study on AI's Impact AI's impact on creativity and problem-solving, including an experiment involving human ideation with and without AI assistance. (00:03:32) Research Findings on AI and Innovation Specific practices to effectively use AI in teams for idea generation and the counterintuitive feelings associated with AI-assisted work. (00:04:37) The Counterintuitive Nature of AI Assistance Why teams that used AI effectively felt worse about their work, and the importance of adjusting work processes to incorporate AI as a collaborative tool. (00:07:59) The FIXIT Methodology for AI Collaboration The FIXIT methodology, a five-step process to enhance collaboration with AI. (00:12:29) Enhancing Conversations with AI Improving conversations with AI, including using audio messages for interaction and exploring different large language models for varied inputs. (00:17:45) The Final Three Questions Jeremy Utley offers a starting point for individuals new to ChatGPT, and Kian Gohar shares two communicators he admires and his three ingredients for successful communication. (00:22:57) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The ways supercommunicators operate and how to emulate their techniques. Across more than 130 episodes, Think Fast, Talk Smart has touched a lot on what it takes to be a good communicator. But what about reaching that next level? What about being a “supercommunicator”? Supercommunicator is a term used by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and author Charles Duhigg in his latest book, Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. In this podcast episode, Abrahams and Duhigg explore the precise techniques that distinguish a good communicator from a “supercommunicator:” traits such as active listening; looping for understanding to demonstrate genuine engagement; and identifying what someone is truly feeling, underneath what they actually say. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteBooksNew Yorker articleThe Repurposed Social BrainOverly Shallow?: Miscalibrated Expectations Create a Barrier to Deeper ConversationThe Conversational Circumplex: Identifying, Prioritizing, and Pursuing Informational and Relational Motives in ConversationIt Helps to Ask: The Cumulative Benefits of Asking Follow-Up QuestionsHarvard Negotiation ProjectYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeWebsite YouTubeWebsite Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest Charles Duhigg and his new book Super Communicators. (00:01:26) Transition from Habits to Communication Duhigg shares how personal experiences and a desire to understand human interactions motivated him to explore communication. (00:02:51) The Neuroscience of Connection The neuroscience behind successful communication and the role of neural entrainment in establishing connection and understanding. (00:04:21) Storytelling as a Powerful Communication Tool The importance of storytelling in communication and how stories foster empathy and engagement. (00:06:16) Identifying and Aligning Conversation Types Three types of conversations (practical, emotional, social) and the necessity of aligning conversation types for effective communication. (00:08:07) Practices of Super Communicators Insights into the habits of super communicators, including their approach to recognizing conversation types and the importance of deep listening. (00:15:02) Navigating Conflict Through Effective Communication Managing conflictual conversations with a focus on listening, understanding, and managing control dynamics. (00:20:50) Challenges of Online Communication Challenges and strategies for communicating in online and virtual settings. (00:25:04) The Craft and Impact of Storytelling Approaches to storytelling and its significance in making complex ideas memorable and engaging. (00:29:06) Developing New Communication Habits New communication habits developed from Duhigg's research and their impact on personal and professional interactions. (00:31:02) The Final Three Questions Charles Duhigg discusses the importance of deep questions, the communicator he most admires, and his recipe for successful communication. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Effective and productive teams and relationships are based on the ability to communicate safely and to fail successfully. In this episode, Amy Edmondson, a professor at Harvard Business School and author of The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well, shares profound insights on the different types of failure—basic, complex, and intelligent—and their implications for learning and innovation. In her conversation with host and Strategic Communications lecturer Matt Abrahams, Edmonson opens up about her struggles with failure, highlighting the importance of moving from rumination to reflection. This episode offers listeners a comprehensive guide to fostering an environment where failure is not feared but embraced as a crucial step toward growth and success. Episode Reference Links: WebsiteThe Fearless OrganizationRight Kind of WrongMaking it Safe: The Effects of Leader InclusivenessIn Good CompanyWebsiteYouTubeYoutube Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Matt Abrahams introduces guest Amy Edmondson and her new book the Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well. (00:01:38) Psychological Safety Communication Strategies The concept of psychological safety and its role in fostering open communication and risk-taking within teams. (00:05:36) Leader's Role in Creating a Safe Environment A leader's role in acknowledging vulnerability and creating a culture of appreciation for candid feedback. (00:08:27) Empowering Every Team Member Benefits of empowering every team member to contribute to psychological safety. (00:10:46) Understanding Failure The importance of psychological safety in admitting mistakes and exploring the concept of failure. (00:14:07) Communicating About Failure How leaders can effectively communicate about failures to encourage team learning and resilience. (00:18:34) Unequal Opportunity to Fail The unequal opportunity to fail, particularly for underrepresented groups. (00:20:39) The Final Three Questions Amy Edmondson shares her challenges with failure, a communicator she most admires, and three ingredients to a successful communication recipe. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why resistance isn’t always a bad thing. Friction — that’s Professor Huggy Rao’s metaphor for the forces that hamper workplace efficiency. But as he says, some friction can be helpful — if you know how to use it. In his book, The Friction Project: How Smart Leaders Make the Right Things Easier and the Wrong Things Harder, Rao and coauthor Robert I. Sutton explore how operational obstacles show up in the workplace and, more importantly, what we can do about them. Through what Rao calls “friction fixing,” leaders can “take out the bad friction to make the right things easy to do [and] put in good friction to make the wrong things harder [to do].” As Rao discusses with host Matt Abrahams on this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, leaders can eliminate bad friction through good communication. “Communication matters a lot,” he says. “The simple rule is, make sure a 10-year-old can understand it on the first try.” Episode Reference Links: WebsiteThe Friction ProjectScaling Up ExcellenceMarket Rebels“Ah! Aha! Haha!” by Ramji Raghavan WebsiteYouTube Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest, Huggy Rao, and his latest book on the importance of focusing on friction to become our best selves. (00:01:24) Scaling Mindsets and Communication Insights on scaling excellence and the critical role of simple communication in fostering the right mindset. (00:04:28) AstraZeneca: Scaling Simplification A case study on simplification efforts at AstraZeneca & the gift of time that they gave their employees. (00:08:49) Understanding Friction: Terrible and Wonderful The dual nature of friction, highlighting its role as both a hindrance and a catalyst for decision-making. (00:11:05) Jargon Monoxide Complicated jargon’s impact on organizations, and the need for simplicity in communication. (00:13:03) The Art of Storytelling The benefits & goals of storytelling, creating moral elevation & emotional connection. (00:15:12) Job Titles and Accountability An experiment on the impact of personalized job titles on team performance and accountability in tech startups and the introduction of “good friction”. (00:17:57) The Final Three Questions Huggy shares his strategy for reducing friction in his life, a story about the communicator he most admires, Saul Alinsky, and his three ingredients for a successful communication recipe, Aah! Aha! Ha-Ha! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Simple language, forceful language, vivid language, and keeping it simple and direct,” says Professor Jeffrey Pfeffer, are all powerful tools to strengthen your communication. Host and Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer Matt Abrahams interviews Pfeffer, the author many books, including Power: Why Some People Have It and Others Don't, about the verbal and nonverbal ways we can harness, or give away, our authority when we’re speaking to others. Pfeffer is also the host of the podcast Pfeffer on Power and teaches the Stanford GSB online course Discover the Paths to Power. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Each episode provides concrete, easy-to-implement tools and techniques to help you hone and enhance your communication skills. Episode Reference Links: Pfeffer on PowerDying for a PaycheckPower: Why Some People Have It and Others Don'tDiscover the Paths to PowerYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeWebsite Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Matt Abrahams introduces the episode, highlighting the importance of power and presence in communication. (00:01:31) Defining Power and Status Jeffrey Pfeffer shares his definition of power and status, emphasizing their significance in achieving goals despite opposition. (00:02:45) Nonverbal & Verbal Behaviors to Communicate Power Specific behaviors that convey power, and those to avoid. (00:05:46) Emotion and Power Pfeffer explores the role of emotion in conveying power, highlighting the effectiveness of displaying strong emotions like anger and passion. (00:09:11) Virtual Communication Strategies for projecting competence and higher status in virtual communication are discussed, emphasizing the importance of appearance and framing on video calls. (00:10:55) Communicating Across Power Levels Jeffrey Pfeffer advises on crafting concise, powerful messages for communication with higher-status individuals, emphasizing the importance of directness and presentation in person. (00:12:06) Tailoring Messages with Flattery Pfeffer suggests beginning communications with flattery, highlighting its effectiveness in making the recipient more receptive to your message. (00:13:33) The Importance of ‘Warming Up’ Why we should warm up physically and vocally before important communications. (00:16:33) The Final Three Questions Pfeffer shares his best communication advice in a concise slide title, the communicators he “admires”, and his three ingredients for a successful communication recipe. (00:19:20) Conclusion and Appreciation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New York Times Opinion columnist David Brooks shares how to communicate so that others feel seen, heard, and understood. All too often, we communicate without really connecting. The key to building deep connections with others, says David Brooks, is to make them feel seen and heard. Brooks is a writer for the New York Times, the Atlantic, and the best-selling author of several books. In his latest, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen, he explores how vulnerability — both being vulnerable ourselves and creating space for others to be as well — is the key to fostering deeper connections at home, at work, and throughout our lives. “[People] need to be seen, heard, and understood,” he says. “If you hide yourself from the emotional intimacies of life, you're hiding yourself from life itself.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Brooks and host Matt Abrahams discuss the fundamentals of communicating with vulnerability and empathy, outlining the skills that anyone can learn and use to connect more deeply in their relationships. Episode Reference Links: Full list of David Brooks booksBryan StevensonGeorge OrwellC.S. Lewis VideoYouTubeWebsiteYouTubeWebsite Connect: Email Questions & Feedback Episode Transcripts Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart LinkedIn Page InstagramYouTubeMatt Abrahams LinkedInStanford GSB LinkedIn Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:26) Personal Motivation David Brooks shares insights into his journey and the motivation behind his latest book. (00:04:01) Barriers to Connection Common barriers to connection including egotism, anxiety, worldview, and lack of questioning. (00:04:43) The Stages of Empathy David Brooks breaks down empathy into components such as mirroring, mentalizing, and caring, and recognizing your own emotion (00:07:40) Keys to Meaningful Conversation Attention as an on-off switch, loud listening, avoiding topping responses, embracing pauses, and making people authors (00:11:22) Understanding Illuminators and Diminishers Illuminators are those who make you feel seen and valued through curiosity and active listening and suggestions and suggestions on how to be a better illuminator and conversationalist. (00:14:01) How to Be a Better Public Speaker The importance of vulnerability, humor, and storytelling. (00:16:25) Paradigmatic vs. Narrative Modes of Thinking Jerome Bruner's concept of paradigmatic for writing and convincing, Narrative mode for understanding a fellow human being. (00:18:02) David Brooks' Journey Becoming a journalist, inspired by childhood reading and early experiences as a police reporter & admiration for Oprah Winfrey as an admirable listener. (00:19:52) Ingredients for Successful Communication David Brooks outlines his three essential ingredients for effective communication: depth of passion, vulnerability, and clarity. (00:22:27) Closing See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matt takes live questions from his worldwide audience. Join Matt Abrahams engaging with his international audience and answering questions that touch upon some of today's most pressing communication challenges. Matt offers advice on everything from the nuances of crafting clear, impactful questions and navigating emotional dynamics in group settings to maintaining control during presentations and delivering difficult news. Additionally, listeners are treated to innovative strategies for creating memorable introductions and managing disruptive behaviors in group discussions. This episode, taken from a Think Fast Talk Smart live event, offers practical tips and strategies; its a value add for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills in personal and professional contexts. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Episode Links: WebsiteYouTubeWebsiteYouTube, WebsiteYouTube Connect: Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.edu Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Stanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction and Overview of Part Two (00:01:11) Formulating Relevant Questions Crafting relevant questions in high-pressure situations. Matt outlines a three-step process for developing concise questions that address the key issues, and provide the person answering with a hook. (00:03:14) Managing Emotional Discussions How to handle a group discussion that gets emotional reactions by acknowledging emotions and using paraphrasing to refocus the conversation. (00:05:32) Navigating An Audience Hijacking Your Presentation Set clear boundaries and expectations at the beginning of the presentation, along with effective paraphrasing. (00:08:25) Communication Structures for Delivering Difficult Messages How to employ the "What, So What, Now What" or the “Comparison, Contrast, Conclusion” structures when giving difficult news, or feedback. (00:10:25) Effective Cross-Cultural Communication When communicating effectively in a multinational company, Matt emphasizes empathy, repetition, and deep listening. (00:12:51) How to Get Creative With Our Introductions Matt suggests starting with a provocative statement and then your name, in order to set an expectation for who we are and what's important to us. (00:14:51) Handling a Difficult or Challenging Person in Groups Matt recommends constructive feedback and the strategic use of paraphrasing to manage disruptions. (00:17:13) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matt takes live questions from his worldwide audience and shares a lesson around concision, relevance, accessibly, and precision in messaging. In this "masterclass," he emphasizes the communicator's role as a translator who simplifies complex information for diverse audiences. Key takeaways include the careful use of analogies, considering cultural backgrounds and audience understanding, and providing techniques for chunking information into understandable segments. Additionally, the episode delves into the significance of structuring communication to achieve specific goals, highlighting Matt’s structure 'What? So What? Now What?. This episode is packed with practical advice and strategies for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills, whether in professional or personal contexts. Be sure to tune in to Part 2, the “Ask Me Anything” portion of this recorded event. Think Fast, Talk Smart is a podcast produced by Stanford Graduate School of Business. Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Stanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction and Global Participation Jenny & Matt introduce the live episode. (00:01:09) Challenges of Communication Matt emphasizes the challenges in maintaining focus and clarity in a world filled with distractions and uses the iPod messaging as an example of focused communication. (00:02:46) Concision Matt shares insights, examples, and practical techniques on using minimal words for maximum impact. (00:06:47) Relevance The importance of thinking about who our audience is, their needs, and how to use emotion, engagement, time-travelling phrases, and curiosity. (00:10:36) Accessibility How do we make our content understandable to our audience? Matt explains that communicators are translators, and suggests techniques such as language, analogies, chunking, and providing diagrams (00:15:50) Precision Making sure we have a clear goal for our communication and the three components of a clear goal: information, emotion, and action. (00:17:20) The importance of Structure for Precision Exploring various structures for targeted communication, including insights from the Dummies book series, Matt’s favorite communication structure: 'What? So What? Now What?', and thinking about how we start and finish. (00:21:38) Closing See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If we want to generate better ideas, then we need to get people back to the office. In this bonus meetings mini-series episode, we feature an episode from the newest podcast from Stanford Graduate School of Business – If/Then: Business, Leadership, Society. In this conversation with senior editor Kevin Cool, Professor of Marketing and former TFTS guest Jonathan Levav details his study of remote work and creativity. “Pairs that worked face-to-face generated 15 to 20% more ideas than pairs that worked on Zoom,” Levav notes. What’s more, in-person brainstorming helped people consider a wider and more diverse range of possibilities. “Working on Zoom was a double penalty. Fewer ideas — and a narrower set of ideas.” Remote work may be the new normal in our post-pandemic world, but Levav cautions us from accepting the status quo — especially if we want to keep our creative edge. As this episode of If/Then explores, our best ideas could still lie ahead of us — if we can all get in the same room. If/Then is a podcast from the Stanford Graduate School of Business that examines research findings that can help us navigate the complex issues we face in business, leadership, and society. Each episode features an interview with a Stanford GSB faculty member. Key Takeaways: For hybrid work environments, managers should select “in-office” days based on tasks we perform better in person, such as collaboration and brainstorming. More flexible schedules for remote and office work allow employees to bring their best selves and perform better at their jobs. More Resources: Listen to Jonathan Levav’s Webby-Award winning TFTS episode: "88. Best of: Leading From Home – How to Create the Right Environment for Communication." Be sure to also listen to Part 1 and 2 of our Making Meeting Matter mini-series. Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page & Instagram Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Stanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & Twitter Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Matt introduces the If/Then podcast, and the episode featuring Jonathan Levav, previous Think Fast Talk Smart guest. (00:01:15) The Importance of In-Person Collaboration If/Then host Kevin Cool and Will Tracy, former executive producer of Succession, on his experiences with writers rooms and why virtual meetings don’t work in that context. (00:04:34) Introduction to Research on Virtual Collaboration Kevin introduces guest Jonathan Levav, his research on the effects of communicating on video on creative idea generation. Jonathan shares the conversation that was the genesis of the research. (00:05:32) Research findings The study methods used and results: face-to-face collaboration leads to 15-20% more creative ideas than collaboration over Zoom. (00:08:26) Understanding the Difference People’s responses to the study and the impact of a physical experience (00:11:54) Evaluating Task Types for Meeting Type Determining different modalities for tasks in order to determine the best environment for that work, and why some work best in certain contexts. (00:16:42) Return to the Office As companies are encouraging employees to return to the office for a third day, the tension between employers and employees desires and how to add appeal as well as the lack of systemic study for data-base decision making. (00:20:30) Advice for Managers of Remote Workers The need for conscious change to adapt to the remote work experience, and Jonathan’s personal experience doing this teaching. (00:24:31) Choice Architecture The importance of incentivizing workers to return to the office by making workplace culture recognize and meet employee needs. (00:29:43) Jonathan Levav's Career and Next Research Steps How Jonathan came to be in his field and his interest in studying networking and the way that virtual interactions shape relationship dynamics. (00:32:59)...

Whether you’re giving a toast or presenting in a meeting, communication is critical to success in business and in life. Join Matt Abrahams, a lecturer of Strategic Communication at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he sits down with experts in the field to discuss real-world communication challenges. How do I send my message clearly when put on the spot? How do I give better feedback? How can I easily convey complex information? How do I manage my reputation? How do I manage my anxiety in any speaking situation? Think Fast, Talk Smart provides the tools, techniques, and best practices to help you communicate more effectively. Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast is a production of Stanford Graduate School of Business. To find more podcasts from Stanford GSB, visit our website. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How can we make meetings more effective? How can we keep people engaged and interested? Whether it’s in person or on Zoom, here are a few techniques you can use to make your gatherings more meaningful, productive, and memorable. Get practical tools and actionable insights to actually make meetings matter, as well as knowing when NOT to have a meeting. Join Matt Abrahams in a dynamic conversation with Elise Keith, an expert on effective meetings and communication. Elise explains the three main categories of meetings, and shares practical strategies for engaging participants, handling common meeting issues and maximizing productivity through techniques like parallel processing as well as other tools. Be sure to also listen to Part 1 of our meeting mini-series, as well as the following bonus Meeting's episode from the Stanford GSB's If/Then podcast. Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page & Instagram Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Stanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & Twitter Chapters: (00:00) Introduction Part two of the making meetings meaningful series, with guest Elise Keith (02:01) Why & How to Have Meetings The power of meetings for focusing attention and how to know when to conduct them virtually or in person. (03:56) Meeting Categories Elise breaks down the three major categories of meetings: Cadence, Catalyst, and Learn & Influence. (05:49) Purpose and Outcome The two things to know before scheduling a meeting: the purpose and outcomes - and how to communicate those practically (10:00) Knowing When Not to Meet When a meeting may not be the most effective way to achieve goals; ensuring respect for participants' time. (11:45) The Art of Facilitation Practical tips for engaging participants, and setting expectations for active participation. (15:59) Tools for Creating Equity and & Cooperation Think-Pair-Share, or 1-2-All, and harnessing silence to encourage equal participation and leveling of the meeting. (17:19) Maximizing Meeting Productivity Parallel processing for dividing work efficiently while keeping the team united. Plus, emphasizing achieving results in business meetings. (19:01) Meeting Best Practices A lightning-round of best practices for addressing common meeting challenges. (21:20) Final Questions A communicator most admired by Elise, as well as her three ingredients for successful communication (23:04) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Delve into why people hate meetings, explore what hinders their effectiveness, and how to change that. Karin Reed (Emmy Award winner) and Joe Allen (“The Meeting Doctor”) join Matt Abrahams in the first of a two-part series that aims to reshape your approach to meetings and help you make them effective and meaningful, whether in person, virtual or hybrid. They shed light on the constraints hindering effective meetings, and explore strategies for optimizing meetings, emphasizing the importance of right-sizing meetings and focusing on realistic agendas. Karin provides valuable tips for enhancing on-air presence, focusing on aspects like eye contact, lighting, and framing, while Joe tackles the challenges of managing disruptive behaviors in virtual meetings. Don't miss this insightful exploration into the world of how to make meetings better. Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page & Instagram Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Stanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & Twitter Chapters: (00:00) Introduction Host Matt Abrahams sets the stage for the two-episode series on meaningful meetings and introduces guests Karin Reed and Joe Allen. (02:02) Why People Hate Meetings Reasons behind the dislike for meetings, focusing on habits and societal norms and the issues that create ineffective meetings. (04:49) Participation Equity Strategies for validating all forms of participation, especially in virtual and hybrid meetings. (06:53) Meeting Structures and Strategically Ordering Topics How to strategically best order tasks for a meeting adapting to the team's readiness. (09:21) Best Practices for Virtual and Hybrid Meetings The importance of being & feeling seen and heard in virtual and hybrid meetings, strategies to work against proximity bias. (11:57) Virtual Presence Tips Tips to have the best virtual presence from Karin, including eye contact, framing, lighting, and audio (16:35) How to Combat Counterproductive Meeting Behavior Joe explains different types of behaviours that derail meetings and how procedural communication can be used as a strategy to address them, and the possible outcomes of implementing this. (20:45) Final Thoughts on Effective Meetings Karin & Joe each give their one big tip for effective meetings, Karin shares the importances of injecting humanity and friendship, and Joe shares his communication mentor. (23:52) The ABCs of Communication Karin Reed shares the first three ingredients for a successful communication recipe: Authenticity, Brevity, and Clarity. (25:01) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The information you receive is only as strong as the questions you ask. This week we revisit Matt's discussion with Debra Schifrin about how to craft inquiries that can lead to better communication outcomes. Questions are also instrumental in building relationships, Schifrin points out. “If you’re asking questions, you’re signaling to the other person that you value them. You’re taking time to listen to their answers.” For a full transcript of this conversation, visit our website. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to the Episode and Guest (01:47) The Role and Importance of Questions Debra Schifrin discusses the various goals and purposes of asking questions, such as getting information and building relationships. (02:36) Questions in Building Relationships and Coaching Focus on how questions help in building relationships and their use in coaching and mentoring. (04:41) Negative Aspects of Question Asking Discussion about the darker goals of asking questions, like intimidation or avoiding responsibility. (06:57) The Impact of Tone in Question Asking Examination of how tone can significantly alter the perception and effectiveness of questions. (08:19) Creating Effective Questions Strategies for formulating good questions, emphasizing the use of value-related words. (10:10) Advice for Business Leaders on Question Asking Guidance for leaders on the importance of bravery in asking questions and being open to unexpected answers. (11:53) Context and Best Practices in Question Asking The relevance of context in questioning and best practices rooted in a mindset of curiosity. (15:25) Debra Schifrin's Secret Weapon in Questioning Schifrin's "killer last question" technique and its effectiveness in eliciting insightful responses. (17:19) Experiment with Different Questioning Styles An experiment demonstrating the impact of different ways of asking questions on the responses received. (19:00) Wrap-up and Final Questions Concluding part where Matt asks Debra Schifrin his three standard questions for all podcast guests, focusing on communication advice, admired communicators, and successful communication ingredients. Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page & Instagram Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Stanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & Twitter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Research-backed techniques on how to beat nervousness in the moment. In this episode, Matt uses clips from experts from previous TFTS episodes to provide you with several communication anxiety management techniques to help you feel more comfortable and confident when you communicate. And as a guide to help us learn these techniques, he introduces the ABCs of anxiety management. (00:00) Intro: the ABC's of anxiety management (02:23) Christian Wheeler: Get comfortable being uncomfortable (03:38) Kelly McGonigal: Anxiety is a sign you care (04:50) Andrew Huberman: Using breath to help quell anxiety (06:51) Jeffrey Pfeffer: Warming up right before a communication challenge (08:22) Alia Crum: Understanding that stress can be good for us (10:12) Alison Wood Brooks: Reframing our mindset (12:01) Anxiety Management Plan: Matt shares instructions on how to make your own “AMP” so you can communicate at your best. Connect with TFTS: Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteLinkedIn PageInstagramLinkedInLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have to be vulnerable in order to build trust in our relationships. But as Jacob Morgan says, “Vulnerability for leaders is not the same as it is for everybody else.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Morgan shares with host Matt Abrahams his “vulnerable leadership equation” and how leaders can use it to transform the way they interact with others — creating more trust, unlocking people’s potential, and building successful teams and organizations. As Morgan explains, owning up to your mistakes and struggles might make you vulnerable, but it doesn’t necessarily make you a leader. In his latest book, Leading with Vulnerability: Unlock Your Greatest Superpower to Transform Yourself, Your Team, and Your Organization, Morgan lays out why leading with vulnerability goes a step further, saying, “Here's what I learned from the mistake that I made [and] steps that I'm going to put into place to make sure this doesn't happen again.” Connect: Leading with Vulnerability Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteLinkedIn PageInstagramLinkedInLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.