Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Transform conflicts into something productive.

Show Notes

Many of us would rank getting along with colleagues as an important aspect of work, but, as Amy Gallo explains, relationships devoid of disagreement can actually be less productive. 
“While our natural human instinct is to avoid conflict, I believe that conflicts are not only an inevitable part of interacting with other humans, but they're a necessary part.”
Gallo is a workplace expert, host of HBR’s Women at Work podcast, and the author of Getting Along: How to Work With Anyone. Across her work, Gallo touts that the key to transforming conflicts into something productive is to understand its root cause and learn how to reframe them. 
“Even at the base of those unhealthy conflicts or those unproductive conflicts is something that needs to be resolved,” she says. 
In her conversation with host and strategic communications lecturer Matt Abrahams, Gallo provides useful frameworks and new concepts on how we can approach conflicts at work.  

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Matt Abrahams introduces guest Amy Gallo, a workplace expert on communication and conflict.
(00:01:00) The Role of Conflict in the Workplace
The benefits of conflict in professional settings and why not having enough conflict can be detrimental.
(00:02:26) Facilitating Effective Conflict
Strategies for creating productive conflict and the importance of normalizing conflict.
(00:04:45) Frameworks for Navigating Unhealthy Conflict
Detailed framework for addressing and transforming unhealthy conflicts into productive discussions.
(00:11:56) The Power of Workplace Friendships
How workplace friendships can enhance job performance and personal satisfaction.
(00:14:01) Balancing Friendships and Professional Boundaries
Advice on maintaining effective relationships without compromising professional integrity or favoritism.
(00:16:53) The Final Three Questions
Amy shares a conflict she handled effectively, a communicator she admires, and her recipe for successful communication.
(00:20:01) Conclusion


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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?

One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication.
Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges.

Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships.

Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.