The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More by Jefferson Fisher

 

Summary (from the publisher): From communication expert Jefferson Fisher, the definitive book on making your next conversation the one that changes everything

No matter who you’re talking to, The Next Conversation gives you immediately actionable strategies and phrases that will forever change how you communicate. Jefferson Fisher, trial lawyer and one of the leading voices on real-world communication, offers a tried-and-true framework that will show you how to transform your life and your relationships by improving your next conversation.

Fisher has gained millions of followers through short, simple, practical videos teaching people how to argue less and talk more. Whether it’s handling a heated conversation, dealing with a difficult personality, or standing your ground with confidence, his down-to-earth teachings have helped countless people navigate life’s toughest situations. Now for the first time, Fisher has distilled his three-part communication system (Say it with control, Say it with confidence, Say it to connect) that can easily be applied to any situation.

You will learn:

- Why you should never “win” an argument
- How to assert yourself and communicate with intention
- How to set boundaries and frame conversations
- Why saying less is often more
- How to overcome conflict with connection

The Next Conversation will give you practical phrases that will lead to powerful results, from breaking down defensiveness in a hard talk with a family member to finding your own assertive voice at the boardroom conference table. Your every word matters, and by controlling how you communicate every day, you will create waves of positive impact that will resonate throughout your relationships to last a lifetime.

Everything you want to say, and how you want to say it, can be found in The Next Conversation.

Review: I read this for book club and I'm not sure I would have picked it up on my own, as I'm not familiar with the author's viral content. However, it was surprisingly easy to follow on audio and the author included lots of personal stories and details to make this feel relatable. 

I think most people seeking this book out probably have a problematic relationship or find themselves arguing a lot or have issues being assertive in conversations. I don't have anyone I'm arguing with and I do generally feel like I feel capable of speaking up for myself. I think one area I was looking for advice on is having hard conversations at work or with people you don't know as well. And he did touch on this and give some examples from his own professional life.  

I do think the author gives some straightforward tips for better communication, but I don't know that they are that revolutionary. He argues for listening more, trying to avoid the knee jerk defensive reactions, to not apologize for everything, and really try to be mindful of our communication patterns. He also argues for more thoughtful and intentional communication overall, like avoiding sweeping general statements and false apologies. 

Better and more interesting than your average self help book. Despite not feeling like I was necessarily his intended audience (i.e. someone in deep need of communication help), I agreed with his points and found his advice and examples relevant.

Stars: 3.5