Show Notes
In our personal and professional lives, some conversations are harder than others. To navigate the difficulties of discussing what matters most, Professor
Irv Grousbeck says we need the right balance of conviction and compassion.
At both Stanford Graduate School of Business and Stanford School of Medicine, Grousbeck teaches courses on managing difficult conversations. He equips students with skills to be direct while being respectful, to be strong while being warm, and to resist any urge to beat around the bush. "Directness, with respect, is essential,” he says. "So many of our students feel that if you're direct with someone, somehow that's harsh. The art of good conversation management, I think, does involve directness and respect at the same time."
In this episode of
Think Fast, Talk Smart, Grousbeck and host Matt Abrahams explore practical tips and strategies for navigating difficult conversations, from the importance of listening and pausing, to the value of rehearsing your words in advance.
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Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest Irv Grousbeck, lecturer at Stanford GSB, and co-founder and co-director of the GSB Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.
(00:01:04) Ingredients for Entrepreneurial Success The importance of being an opportunity finder and getting comfortable with the domain you are in.
Dispelling common myths about entrepreneurs.
The potential for anyone to become an entrepreneur through hard work and exposure.
The most difficult communication challenges students face and tips to handle these situations.
Dealing with imposter syndrome and advice on how to handle and overcome it.
(00:07:38) Managing Difficult Conversations Manage challenging communication by starting conversations effectively and using collaborative language.
A role-playing exercise to demonstrate how to handle a challenging conversation.
The importance of listening in crucial conversations and advice on how to listen more effectively.
Advice on career planning, emphasizing the importance of context and strategic thinking.
Irv shares what he has learned from his students, a communicator he admires, and the key ingredients for successful communication.
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.
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