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You asked. Dr. Brooks answered.

You asked great questions. So we went to the source to get great answers. Here’s how this Harvard behavioral scientist and bestselling author of TALK responded to MasterClass members’ questions.

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Q

“How do you start a conversation when you don’t know anyone in the room?”

—Barbra R.

A

Skip trying to be interesting. Be interested. Walk up, smile, and ask an easy observation question: “How do you know the host?” or “What brought you here?” Most people are relieved someone started the conversation, especially with a grounded question they can answer easily.

—Dr. Brooks

Q

“When I can’t prep for a question, I ramble instead of answering clearly. How do I get more confident answering things on the spot?”

—Larissa H.

A

Buy yourself time. Pause. Say, “That’s a great question” or “Thank you for asking. What a great question.” Then answer in one sentence before adding details. Most people ramble because they’re thinking out loud. Clarity beats speed.

—Dr. Brooks

Q

“I hate opening with ‘What do you do for work?’—but I don’t know what else to ask. What’s a better way to start?”

—Stephanie L.

A

Ask about what people are looking forward to, learning, or excited about lately. Questions about hopes, hobbies, and excitement almost always lead to more memorable conversations than job titles, departments, and deliverables.

—Dr. Brooks

The Conversation Advantage

with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks

is out now.

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