Conversation What to Say and How to Say it   By: Mary Greer Conklin

In "Conversation: What to Say and How to Say It," author Mary Greer Conklin offers readers a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of conversation. With her wealth of experience as a communication expert and etiquette coach, Conklin's book serves as an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their conversational skills.

One of the book's notable strengths is the author's ability to break down the intricacies of conversation into easy-to-understand concepts. Conklin starts by demystifying the initial stages of conversation, providing readers with practical tips on how to initiate small talk effortlessly. She emphasizes the importance of active listening and the power of non-verbal communication, offering readers insight into the subtle cues that can significantly enhance the quality of their conversations.

Additionally, Conklin delves into the art of storytelling, explaining how anecdotes and personal experiences can engage and captivate one's audience. She effortlessly provides readers with a range of storytelling techniques, enabling them to hold their listeners' attention while conveying their message effectively.

The book also shines in its thoughtful approach to handling challenging conversations. Conklin explores various strategies for navigating sensitive topics, offering constructive ways to express disagreements or address controversial subjects without causing unnecessary conflict. Her guidance on handling difficult personalities and managing conflict is particularly useful, providing readers with practical tools to resolve conflicts and maintain healthy relationships.

Moreover, Conklin's writing style strikes a perfect balance between informative and engaging. She seamlessly weaves in real-life examples and anecdotes that serve not only to illustrate her points but also to entertain readers throughout. Her warmth and approachability make the book feel like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend, enhancing the reading experience.

"Conversation: What to Say and How to Say It" is not without a few minor flaws. At times, Conklin may dwell a bit too long on certain topics, which could have been condensed to maintain a faster-paced narrative. Additionally, while the book emphasizes the importance of practicing conversation skills, it could benefit from more interactive exercises or case studies to help readers put Conklin's advice into immediate action.

Overall, "Conversation: What to Say and How to Say It" by Mary Greer Conklin is an exceptional guide that offers readers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice on how to improve their conversational skills. Whether you wish to achieve better personal relationships or enhance your professional interactions, this book equips you with the tools to confidently navigate any conversation.

First Page:

"The best book that was ever written upon good breeding," said Dr. Johnson to Boswell, "the best book, I tell you, Il Cortegiano by Castiglione, grew up at the little court of Urbino, and you should read it." Il Cortegiano was first published by the Aldine Press at Venice, in 1528... Continue reading book >>