I recently tuned into a Sunday morning news show and was struck by a question the commentator asked their guest. The commentator asked why the guest was not using social media to broadcast his message, and talking with people live instead. The guest’s response caught my attention: He said he talked to people live because there is power, value, and much to be gained through a personal conversation.
I could not agree more, and while I am a firm believer that multiple communication channels are valuable, I have always had a passion for conversation and believe it an important communication medium.
So what does the live conversation allow that other media may not?
Talking with people requires us to be present
When you conduct a conversation with someone, you need to think on your feet. Unlike email or a social media post, you have to be in the present.
Talking face-to-face forces us to interact, understand, and exchange, which usually leads to great ideas, execution, and progress.
While that’s not to say that the result of every conversation is positive, it is an opportunity to learn about and understand the person on the other end in real time.
It’s also an opening to put your best foot forward and connect with someone on a personal and professional level.
This is how solid relationships are built! Most social interactions or email exchanges ultimately lead to a conversation. Conversation remains a strong means to engage with one another. Why not start with it? Just a thought. Start the conversation.