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Warren Buffet says that the number one key to success is communication skills and having conversations that show your curiousity, ambition, and expertise.
Communication skills increase your capital value by 50% in four areas: generosity, initiative, forward momentum, and transparency. Here are 4 ways to have great conversations:
1) Master the Hello and Goodbye: First, ask someone if they have a moment to speak. If they can't, thank them and create forward momentum. Instead of simply saying "Great speaking with you" or "I'll keep you posted on additional opportunities," establish yourself as professional and courteous and ask them "How can I follow up with you?"
2) Ask for Help (and sound smart while you do it): Be enthusiastic and ask for specific resources and guidance that will help you do your job better. When facing a challenge, ask, "do you have a template I should follow or people I should speak with?"
3) Get Feedback: Don't wait for the 6 month review to get feedback–ask your manager how he or she is feeling about your progress and what could be done differently. For a good script on asking for feedback, download my free Leadership Library below, with scripts, tools, and guidebooks.
4) Answer a Question (even if you aren't sure of the answer): There are plenty of ways to answer a question without lying or overtalking. Use your knowledge and experiences to add to the conversation. Someone else may build on your answer, giving you a chance to learn from another perspective.
What are other practices you use to have great conversations?
