As a speech language pathologist who has been in the field for ten years, I am pleased to write a foreword to How to Start and Make a Conversation: How to Talk to Anyone in 30 Seconds or Less.
The art of conversation has been a strong interest of mine since I began my studies as a speech pathologist. In my second year of graduate school, I very quickly discovered how truly challenging it is to be an effective communicator. Learning about non-verbal communication and how individuals utilize language to influence others or to convey a certain message has fascinated me during my entire career.
Participating in a conversation has been one of the problem areas I have seen and worked with in many children and adults. We have addressed areas such as greetings, initiation, and termination of a conversation, as well as non-verbal communication skills. As most know, first impressions are extremely important — and Chris Gottschalk’s How to Start and Make a Conversation shows readers the importance of interpreting body language, using that information to make a great first impression, adjusting one’s own body language, and choosing appropriate topics to discuss.
Gottschalk thoroughly explains why we, as humans, engage in communication. Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and various sociological theories are expressed in an organized and concise manner. The theories and personality types described will help the reader understand unique needs for each individual type, and it will also help readers define themselves.
How to Start and Make a Conversation provides detailed case studies of professionals and individuals who describe real-world accounts of struggles and successes in communication. The cases outline practical tips, including joining a conversation, overcoming common conversation barriers, and initiating conversation based on similar interests. Gottschalk provides strategies for unique situations that are challenging for many people, including speaking with someone who uses English as a second language. Gottschalk also includes an important chapter on Internet etiquette (“Netiquette”) and how to use information from online to help face-to-face communication. Social Web sites and online communication have become prevalent, and knowing how to properly act online and use this new information will benefit those hoping to enhance conversation and business networking skills.
As a speech language pathologist, I found the information in this book to be extremely helpful. I believe it will be a great tool to help enhance anyone’s personal and professional conversation skills!
Deanna Anderson M.Ed., CCC/SLP
Speech Language Pathologist