Communication Archives

Conversation Résumé + 4 More Ways to Prepare for Quality Talks

Are you prepared to start meaningful conversations and keep them going? Do you have a conversation résumé? If you were to have one, what would go on it? To get better at any sort of conversation, you need to prepare to have it beforehand—in the same way you should warm up your muscles before running a race. Social interaction specialist Patrick King shares five conversation preparation techniques to set you up for greater success in conversations. Keep reading to learn how to always be prepared for quality conversations.

How to Hook a Reader: The 3 Questions You Must Answer Up Front

When a reader starts to read your story, what are they looking for? What must you give them if you want them to keep reading? Lisa Cron asserts that stories satisfy neurological needs that humans evolved over millennia. So, good writers understand these needs and satisfy them as they craft their stories. Arguably, the primary thing that readers require is a good reason to keep reading past the first page. Read more to discover how to hook a reader by fulfilling their immediate need.

Excited Body Language: 2 Behaviors That Indicate Excitement

How can you tell if someone is genuinely excited to see you? What excited body language behavior is also a tai chi move? We all exhibit subtle physical behaviors that put our emotions on display to those who are skilled in interpreting body language. Joe Navarro teaches these skills in his book The Dictionary of Body Language. Read more to learn what Navarro has to say about behaviors that point to excitement.

Is Language Left or Right Brain? Why Both Hemispheres Matter

Is language left or right brain? What role does each hemisphere play in understanding language? Despite the popular caricature of the right hemisphere as “silent,” psychiatrist Iain McGilchrist contends that it plays a crucial role in understanding language. He discusses the vital roles that both the left brain and right brain play in our use and interpretation of words. Read more to learn what we understand about language and the brain.

The Importance of Small Talk: A Stepping Stone to Connection

Do you hate small talk? Does it seem shallow and like a waste of time? Patrick King wrote an entire book about small talk. He sings its praises—and teaches the skill—because he recognizes the value of small talk as a stepping stone toward deeper connections. Read more to learn about the importance of small talk and how it’s just the beginning of substantive conversations.

Foreshadowing in a Story: Providing Your Reader With Memories

What does foreshadowing accomplish in a story? How can it be used to powerful effect with your readers? In Wired for Story, Lisa Cron explains that humans have an innate need to understand the reasons behind everything—to make sense of what’s happening to us and around us. One of the techniques that writers can use to satisfy this human need is foreshadowing. Keep reading for Cron’s exploration of foreshadowing in a story and how it affects readers.

How to Read Emotions: Body Language Tips From an FBI Agent

What does it mean when someone purses their lips? Why do people turn their feet away from others? Can you tell what someone’s feeling, despite what they’re saying? Joe Navarro, a retired FBI Special Agent, knows how to read people. In The Dictionary of Body Language, he examines some of the body language cues that indicate emotions, such as repetitive actions that suggest anxiousness and tense postures that indicate anger. Keep reading to learn how to read emotions through body language.

Story Pacing: Give Readers a Break With Subplots & Flashbacks

How should flashbacks be used in a story? What role do subplots play in a narrative? Good stories are powered by conflict. Struggle moves a plot forward toward its resolution. But, our brains can get overloaded when we don’t get breaks from conflict in a story. Lisa Cron, who approaches story writing from a neurological perspective, explains that effective story pacing is the answer. Read on for Cron’s exploration of two story pacing techniques: subplots and flashbacks.

How to Initiate a Conversation by Leveraging Small Talk

Do you avoid making the first move to talk with someone? If so, what opportunities are you missing? Social interaction specialist Patrick King argues that the oft-dreaded small talk is actually the best way to start a conversation that eventually can go in any direction and to any depth. He shares practical tips for approaching and engaging someone effectively and comfortably. Continue reading to learn how to initiate a conversation and make a good first impression in the process.

How to Develop a Plot That Satisfies the Readers’ Expectations

How’s a story’s plot different from what your story is about? How can understanding how the brain works help you create a compelling plot? Lisa Cron explains the formula that the human brain expects to encounter in a story. Then, she shows how you as a writer can employ that formula. She provides tips on how to develop a plot—exploring elements such as conflict, cause and effect, hooking the reader, suspense and reveals, and pacing. Continue reading to learn how to develop a plot that satisfies the expectations of your readers.