Productive Conversations

Ever since we were young, we have been having conversations. Yet we seldom question whether our conversation is productive or otherwise.

Today, with the internet, conversations need not be oral. They can be written. Folks not only send emails to one another but engage in online chats daily using WhatsApp, We Chat, Viber, etc. Using the Facebook and Instagram, people can share views and provide feedback.

Productive conversation is about not wasting time, not just your own but that of others. It is about not focusing on frivolous chatter but rather, on things that will benefit those in the conversation. Thus, it is good to zero in on common ground issues.

To have a productive conversation, it is important not just to talk but to listen. It is not about monopolising the "sound space" or attention grabbing initiatives, but rather sharing of thoughts and ideas.

Conversations can be even more productive if you plan for them to happen. In this way, parties to conversation can make preparations to cover adequate ground.

It is important for us to remain cordial during conversations despite possible heated moments. Folks must remember that it is a conversation not a war. It is not a very productive conversation when people start to insult one another and cause tempers to rise. Thus, it is important for folks to keep conversations stimulating without too much drama and trauma. In this way, one can come away from the conversation feeling good about the participation.

What happens when you feel at a loss and do not know how to engage in a conversation with an individual you desperately want to talk to. Start with a friendly self-introduction, followed by a light conversation such as, "So nice to meet you, Mr X. Think this event will be a huge success. Just look at the turnout". Then wait to see if there the other party is interested to carry on the conversation. Avoid beating yourself up by trying to have a conversation with one who is simply not interested.

One must also avoid twisting and turning facts just to sensationalise things. More often than not, excessive distortion and drama makes conversations counterproductive.

In life, it is not really about how much you can say or do but rather to say and do meaningful things. This will make you a better person.