Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Good advice for good communication in this 150th episode.

Show Notes

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Sometimes, what’s communicated to us can have a big impact on how we communicate to others. This episode explores some of the best communication advice — from experts and Think Fast, Talk Smart listeners around the world.
As teachers of Strategic Communication, lecturers Shawon Jackson and Matt Abrahams have plenty of advice on how to be a better communicator. But in this 150th episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, the two don’t just discuss the communication strategies they share with students in their class, they also feature communication advice from listeners of the podcast.
Covering topics like knowing your audience, using transitions to tie together different ideas, and embracing the power of silence, Jackson and Abrahams unpack good advice for good communication in this celebratory episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction 
Host Matt Abrahams joins guest Shawon Jackson, a lecturer at Stanford GSB, for the 150th episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart.
(00:01:25) The Role of Effective Transitions
The importance of transitions in communication, and an outline of four key types.
(00:04:11) Techniques for Using Slides
Advice on creating effective presentation slides, emphasizing story first and less is more.
(00:07:23) Listener Advice: Knowing Your Audience
Listeners Kevin Weinstein and Kesinee Angkustsiri Yip share the importance of knowing your audience.
(00:08:34) Techniques for Understanding Your Audience
Practical techniques for understanding your audience
(00:10:49) Listener Advice: The Power of Silence
Listener Ashita Tenki shares advice on the power of silence in communication.
(00:11:22) Practicing Silence in Communication
The benefits of holding silence and techniques for making it more comfortable.
(00:12:45) Addressing Communication Pet Peeves
Shawon and Matt share communication pet peeves, and discuss best practices.
(00:16:07) Listener Advice on the Importance of Listening
Listener Digant Dave highlights listening as a critical communication tool.
(00:17:07) Strategies for Effective Listening [00:17:54 - 00:18:19]
The importance of listening for both content and emotional context in communication.
(00:19:39) Conclusion

Creators & Guests

Host
Matt Abrahams
Lecturer Stanford University Graduate School of Business | Think Fast Talk Smart podcast host

What is Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques?

Join Matt Abrahams, a lecturer of Strategic Communication at Stanford Graduate School of Business, every Tuesday as he sits down with experts in the field to discuss real-world challenges.
How do I send my message clearly when put on the spot? How do I write emails to get my point across? How can I easily convey complex information? How do I manage my reputation? Whether you’re giving a toast or presenting in a meeting, communication is critical to success in business and in life.
Think Fast, Talk Smart provides the tools, techniques, and best practices to help you communicate more effectively.
Learn more & sign up for our eNewsletter: https://fastersmarter.io