60 Seconds: 3 Tried and True Tips to Head Off Competition in Dialogue.

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Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is 60 Seconds, your daily dose of hope, imagination, wisdom, stories, practical tips, and general riffing on this and that.

How many times have you been in “conversation” with someone and realized they were busy compiling competitive talking points? Or, maybe what began as a civil discourse erupted into an argument. Facilitating pre-trial focus groups as a litigation consultant taught me that most everybody wants to say something against you, your client, your case, and justice in general.

Practical Tip: I learned the hard way; but I learned. To head off competition in dialogue use thoughtful questions and intentional listening. Here are my 3 tried and true tips for any conversation:

1. Would you tell me more about that?

2. How did you arrive at that position?

3. Could you make room for this idea as well as the one you already hold?

Bonus Tip: Abandon the word “Why?” It sets up a defensive posture and serves no one.

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Production Team: Quarter Moon Story Arts

Music: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron Music

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