3 simple ways to improve the quality of your conversations

Imagine meeting someone for a coffee. Before sitting down, they silence their phone and say, “I want to be fully present for you.”

Just because we live in a world full of distractions doesn’t mean we can’t protect ourselves from them. Or be more intentional about signalling to others that we’re paying attention.

Some people call it digital etiquette. Others call it presence. Well, I think most people perceive it as respect.

So here are three simple ways to improve the quality of your conversations:

1. Listen to understand, not to reply.

It can help to write down thoughts or questions as they arise so you don’t feel tempted to interrupt.

2. Check your understanding by paraphrasing.

Reflect back what you heard in your own words. It’s remarkable how this demonstrates genuine interest.

3. Use the other person’s name naturally throughout the conversation.

Our brains are very sensitive to that, which produces a sense of recognition and connection.

In this insane competition for attention, being fully present is becoming increasingly rare. And that’s exactly why it matters so much.

So why don’t you start by practising this with someone who’s made you feel seen, heard, and valued?