Hello,
Communication has always been my weakness, the ability to engage the other part of conversation is a crucial part of being a successful consultant. Can you please share any practice or books that helps improve this area?
Thank you.
Hi Anonymous,
I second Anonymous B, How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie is the best book I read on the topic. But you won't improve your communication skills much if you don't practice.
The best way to put in practice what you will find in the book is an experience in sales - if you can do any internship in a role requiring constant contact with clients your communication skills will skyrocket in a very short period of time.
Best,
Francesco
There are also a number of podcasts and websites to help - cf. 'the art of charm' or 'the charisma myth' by Fox Cabane.
Also, don't forget to just go out and meet people, forcing yourself to ask questions and then simply listen. Try it - you will be surprised how much they will enjoy your conversation when they are actually the ones talking :)
How to win friends and influence people and Influence by robert cialdini are two classics.
I find that just reading broadly and being able to speak on a variety of subjects and bring up current/interesting topics is also useful.
I'd also add some podcast episodes from Tim Ferriss and the exercises in the book "The 4 Hour Work Week" to the list of recommendations. Also, the Charisma on Command YouTube channel is nice.
If you are thinking more long term, look at something like Toastmasters or forming a Mastermind Group (--> see Napoleon Hill)
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