Think about it: we talk all the time, but how often do we truly understand what makes conversations work—or fail? Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks reveals that conversation is one of humanity's most delicate and demanding tasks, yet it offers profound opportunities for connection, joy, and self-expression.
Brooks takes us inside the world of conversation through fascinating experiments—from speed daters who ask too few questions to business leaders avoiding topic planning to traffic stops that reveal the essence of kind language. This isn't just another communication guide; it's a scientific exploration of why we misunderstand each other so often and how we can do better.
At the heart of Talk is Brooks' revolutionary TALK Maxims framework:
Whether you're chatting face-to-face, on the phone, via text, or through social media, Talk provides practical insights that apply to every interaction. Learn to manage your emotions, spark creativity, navigate conflict, and be more inclusive—skills that extend far beyond simple conversation into leading a more purposeful life.
Brooks distills complex psychological research into actionable advice that works in real-world scenarios. From improving your closest personal relationships to enhancing professional success, the science of conversation just might be the key to connecting more authentically with everyone in your life.
