Final answer:
To create and maintain healthy conversations, one must engage genuinely, listen attentively, and communicate openly. Shonna Waters, PhD offers 10 tips that include being interested, asking open-ended questions, and respecting differing opinions.
Step-by-step explanation:
To have a healthy conversation, it's important to go beyond a simple "Hello" and learn how to keep the dialogue flowing. 10 Tips to Have Healthy Conversations By Shonna Waters, PhD, can be an excellent resource for developing this skill set. Engaging in meaningful conversations helps to create and sustain relationships, both personal and professional. Here are some actionable pointers based on the information from Shonna Waters:
- Be genuinely interested in the person you're talking to. This will make the conversation more engaging for both parties.
- Ask open-ended questions to encourage more than yes or no answers.
- Listen more than you speak to understand the other person's perspective.
- Pay attention to non-verbal cues such as body language and tone of voice.
- Maintain eye contact to show that you're paying attention.
- Be mindful of the topic and make sure it's appropriate for the setting and the relationship.
- Share your thoughts and experiences to reciprocate the exchange of information.
- Stay positive or constructive, even when discussing difficult topics.
- Respect the other person's opinion, even if it differs from your own.
- Know when to end the conversation respectfully and on a positive note.
These 10 tips can help you create meaningful connections through conversation, whether that's in a social setting, at the office, or in a networking event. Remember, the goal of healthy conversations is to build rapport and understand each other better.