Conversational dynamics: Using open-ended versus closed-ended questions

Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to control a conversation? Maybe you were in a hurry, the other person was very talkative, or you needed to encourage him to speak at greater length.

Open-ended questions are those which can have many possible correct answers. For example,

"How did you...", "What happened next?" or "What are the possible implications of ...?" Closed-ended questions can have only 1 or 2 possible answers, such as "What's his name?" or "Do you want to do that on Monday or Wednesday at 2 PM?"

Use open-ended questions to encourage people to talk. (To encourage them even more, wait a couple of seconds after they stop speaking, to see if they will say any more.)

Use closed-ended questions to control the flow, if you only need specific information, or if you are in a hurry. Closed-ended questions at the start of a conversation with someone who is reluctant to speak are also effective; change to open-ended questions when the person relaxes.

Communication strategies for leadership development are available in an e-book packed with valuable tips like this! Executive Communication Techniques  has sections on 18 different vital communication techniques today's leaders need to know and use. This powerful e-book and individual coaching are by Business Speech Improvement.

Well vs Good: Is Your Grammar Missing This Distinction?

Recently I heard a leader state in public, "He did it good". I both winced and lost my some of my respect for him.

"Well" is an adverb, and modifies a verb. For example, in "He ran well", it modifies "ran". "Good" is an adjective, and modifies a noun, as in "He is a good runner".

This is such a simple but easily correctable mistake! Is it appearing in your grammar or that of your employees who speak in public for the company?

For intensive training in verbal communication, including grammar, diction, accent modification, presentation skills and more, visit www.BusinessSpeechImprovement.com.
Coaching and targeted e-books are available on many subjects.

"CPR Speech"

Clients call Business Speech Improvement with some interestingly-worded requests. A few years ago, a supervisor called to ask if we would teach his employee "CPR Speech". Puzzled, I asked him to give me more information. He said he wanted his employee to learn to speak concisely, precisely and with relevance.

If you or an employee have trouble with this verbal communication skill, Individual Speech Coaching is available on request. The topic will also be covered in the Executive Communication Training open enrollment course offered by Business Speech Improvement. For a list of available courses, visit http://businessspeechimprovement.com/enabler/scripts/category.pl?Classes .