How to Have Better Conversations With Anyone

Great conversations are not about impressing people. They are about making people feel safe.

Ask better questions

Instead of: “How was your day?”
Try: “What was the best part of your day?” or “What surprised you today?”

Use the “repeat and expand” technique

Repeat one key phrase, then ask a deeper question.
Them: “Work has been intense.”
You: “Intense how? Deadlines or people?”

Don’t rush to relate

Many people respond with their own story. It feels friendly, but it steals attention.
Listen fully first. Then share.

End with warmth

Even short chats improve when you close well:
“I liked talking with you.”
“Thanks for sharing that.”
Warm endings build relationships.