There’s no denying that conversation isn’t just about talking. It’s also about listening, understanding, and engaging with the right topics.
Having above-average communication skills isn’t about using big words or speaking fast.
It’s about being able to bring up certain topics that not only stimulate meaningful conversation but also reflect your deep understanding of yourself and others.
People who effortlessly weave these topics into their conversations are seen as more authentic, self-aware, and continuously growing individuals – qualities that reflect in the personal brand they project.
In this article titled “If someone brings up these topics in a conversation, they have above-average communication skills”, we’ll explore these special topics.
They may seem simple, but when used correctly, they can elevate your communication game to a whole new level. So, let’s dive in!
1) Active listening
In the world of communication, the importance of active listening cannot be overstated.
Those with above-average communication skills understand the power of truly hearing what someone else is saying.
It goes beyond just waiting for your turn to speak or formulating your next point while the other person is still talking.
Truly skilled communicators engage with the topic at hand, showing genuine interest and asking insightful questions.
This not only encourages deeper conversation but also fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
By actively listening, they make the conversation a two-way street, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.
This level of engagement and empathy is a clear sign of strong communication skills.
Just remember, active listening isn’t about agreeing with everything that’s said.
It’s about understanding different perspectives, which is the bedrock of authentic and meaningful conversations.
2) Personal growth and self-awareness
We’ve all had conversations that stay with us long after they’ve ended. For me, it was a discussion about personal growth and self-awareness with a friend who I hadn’t seen for years.
We were catching up over coffee when she casually brought up the topic of personal development.
She talked about her journey of self-discovery, the books she was reading, the seminars she attended, and how these experiences were helping her understand herself better and grow as an individual.
Her openness to discuss such a personal topic not only deepened our conversation but also made me realize how much she had matured as a communicator.
People who bring up topics like personal growth and self-awareness in conversations show that they are not only in tune with their own feelings and aspirations but also comfortable discussing them with others.
It’s not just about sharing personal experiences or insights. It’s about creating a safe space where others feel encouraged to share their own journeys and perspectives.
This level of empathy and understanding is a clear reflection of above-average communication skills, and it’s something we can all strive to incorporate in our conversations.
3) Emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges and defuse conflict.
It’s a vital part of effective communication.
Those with strong emotional intelligence can navigate various conversation topics with ease. They not only understand their own emotions but also pick up on the feelings of others, adjusting their approach accordingly.
Individuals with high emotional intelligence tend to have better relationships, manage stress more effectively, and even have better overall health.
When someone brings up emotional intelligence in a conversation, it shows they value empathy and understanding in their interactions. It’s a clear sign of above-average communication skills.
4) Open-ended questions
Have you ever noticed how some people seem to have a knack for keeping the conversation flowing smoothly? Chances are, they’re using open-ended questions.
Open-ended questions require more than just a yes or no answer.
They invite the other person to share their thoughts, opinions, or experiences, fostering deeper and more meaningful conversations.
When someone consistently uses open-ended questions in their conversations, it shows that they are genuinely interested in understanding others’ perspectives and not just pushing their own agenda.
This approach not only enhances the quality of the conversation but also helps build stronger connections with others.
It’s a clear sign of above-average communication skills.
5) Acknowledging mistakes
I remember a time when I was leading a project at work. Things didn’t go as planned and we missed our deadline.
Instead of shifting the blame, I brought up the topic in a team meeting, acknowledging my mistakes and discussing what I could have done better.
This wasn’t an easy conversation to have, but it was necessary. It was a chance to learn from the experience and to show my team that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as we learn from them.
Those who bring up their own mistakes in a conversation show their willingness to take responsibility and their commitment to personal growth.
It’s a sign of strong communication skills and it demonstrates humility, authenticity, and the courage to be vulnerable, which ultimately strengthens relationships and builds trust.
6) Goals and aspirations
It’s one thing to talk about day-to-day happenings, but it’s a whole different ball game to bring up future goals and aspirations in a conversation.
When someone shares their dreams, plans, or targets for the future, it signals a forward-thinking mindset.
It shows they are not only aware of their current situation, but they also have a plan for where they want to go.
Moreover, such conversations can be inspiring and motivating. They can encourage others to think about their own goals and maybe even take steps toward achieving them.
If someone consistently brings up goals and aspirations in their conversations, it’s a clear sign of above-average communication skills. It demonstrates self-awareness, ambition, and the ability to plan ahead.
7) Empathy
Above all, empathy is the cornerstone of effective communication.
It’s about understanding and sharing the feelings of others. When someone regularly demonstrates empathy in their conversations, it shows they are not just hearing but truly understanding the other person.
An empathetic communicator can put themselves in someone else’s shoes, respect their viewpoints, and respond in a thoughtful and considerate manner.
This creates a safe space for open and honest conversation, fostering deeper connections.
Empathy goes beyond mere politeness or sympathy. It’s a sincere attempt to understand and connect with others on a deeper level.
If someone brings up empathy in their conversations, it’s a clear sign of above-average communication skills. It shows they are not just good communicators, but also compassionate human beings.
A closing thought
The art of conversation is akin to a dance. It requires grace, timing, and the ability to adapt to the rhythm of your partner.
The topics we choose to discuss in our conversations are not just casual selections. They are reflections of our personality, our mindset, and our level of communication skills.
Those who consistently bring up topics such as active listening, personal growth, emotional intelligence, open-ended questions, acknowledging mistakes, goals and aspirations, and empathy, demonstrate their above-average communication skills.
The beauty lies not just in mastering these topics but in understanding their profound impact on our interactions.
They have the potential to turn every conversation into a meaningful exchange, fostering deeper connections and mutual respect.
As George Bernard Shaw once said, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
So the next time you find yourself in a conversation, take a moment to reflect on the topics you choose and how they shape your interactions.
After all, effective communication isn’t just about speaking; it’s about connecting.
