Conversation Tip #7: Appreciate silence
Accept–and enjoy–the inevitability of silence! “Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom.” -Francis Bacon (1561-1626) English philosopher Many Americans feel uncomfortable with silence, even on crowded elevators or standing in lines with strangers. Some Americans also feel uncomfortable with pauses or periods of silence in conversations. Pauses in conversation occur frequently, and...
Read MoreConversation Tip #6: As always, consider context
Context determines boundaries of conversation “Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners.” -Laurence Sterne (1713-1768) Anglo-Irish novelist How wonderful that there are so many possible relationships to cultivate through conversation! Students, too, must appreciate the variety of things to talk about with every person in their family, classroom and...
Read MoreConversation Tip #5: Search for common interests
Finding commonalities sparks conversations Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons “Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.” -Albert Camus (1913-1960), French novelist and Nobel Prize winner We can learn a great deal from our conversations, even about our own interests and hobbies! Finding a...
Read MoreConversation Tip #4: Carry a respectful tone
Pair your words with a respectful tone Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons “Beautiful tone, beautiful heart.” -Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998) Japanese violinist, creator of the “Suzuki Method” Proper tone is essential for the effective conversationalist and communicator, after all, having a good conversation seems unattainable without clear, mutual respect. A student’s conversation partner may find...
Read MoreConversation Tip #3: React appropriately
Exude interest with body language and facial expressions Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons “The body never lies.” -Martha Graham (1894-1991) American modern dancer A conversation composed entirely of just words holds less meaning if there aren’t appropriate reactions and responses. Therefore, body language and facial expressions remain key, as both signal the way words are being absorbed. Facing...
Read MoreConversation Tip #2: Listen louder!
Without listening, there’s no conversation Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons “There is a difference between listening and waiting for your turn to speak.” -Simon Sinek (1973- ) English businessman, author and philanthropist Do your students pay attention to what others are saying in a conversation? About half the conversation should be spent listening to what the other person has to say; after...
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