Improve your communication skills in tough conversations

  • Learn how to have productive disagreements
  • Prepare yourself before a tough conversation
  • Acknowledge that you may not agree but want to understand each other’s point of view
  • Use ‘I’ statements and avoid using the word ‘but’
  • Actively listen and ask questions
  • Slow down if things get heated
  • Discuss how to move forward and be open to disagreeing
  • Thank the person for their willingness to talk

In today’s world, we often avoid necessary discussions due to heated arguments. However, experts suggest preparing for difficult talks, actively listening, and discussing how to move forward. Dr. Thom Mayer, medical director for the NFL Players Association, shares his strategies for productive disagreements. Practice your message, use ‘I’ statements, listen attentively, and be open to disagreeing. Thank the person for their willingness to talk.

Factuality Level: 2
Factuality Justification: The article is focused on providing advice on how to have tough conversations and disagreements in a productive manner. It does not contain misleading information or inaccuracies. However, it lacks depth and relevant information, making it more of a self-help guide than a news article.·
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides practical advice on how to have tough conversations, with insights from experts in conflict resolution. It stays on topic and offers actionable strategies for engaging in productive discussions with differing opinions.·
Public Companies: NFL Players Association (N/A)
Key People: Dr. Thom Mayer (Medical Director for the NFL Players Association), David Supp-Montgomerie (Associate Professor of Communication Studies at the University of Iowa), Mylien Duong (Psychologist and Senior Director of Research at the Constructive Dialogue Institute), Fatimah Gilliam (Lawyer and Author of ‘Race Rules: What Your Black Friend Won’t Tell You’), Elizabeth Esrey (Professional Mediator)

Financial Relevance: No
Financial Markets Impacted: No
Financial Rating Justification: The article does not pertain to financial topics and there is no event that impacts financial markets or companies.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: ·

Reported publicly: www.wsj.com