Questions
The Follow-Up That Lets a Story Find Its Shape
A neutral follow-up question leaves room for a speaker to add detail in their own words, so you can listen without…
The full exchange
All pieces
Browse Lively Conversation's pieces on questions, listening, disagreement and the different ways people make room for an exchange.
Listening
A Pause or a Paraphrase: Two Ways to Show You Are Listening
Pause or paraphrase listening helps you choose between leaving room and reflecting a point, so your response fits the…
Group Talk
When Public Questions Became Part of the Meeting
When public questions became part of the meeting, audiences gained a recognized turn to challenge speakers and clarify…
Disagreement
The Common-Ground Shortcut That Hides a Real Difference
Naming the point of difference keeps disagreement clear without making it hostile, helping you choose when shared…
Conversation Craft
A Closing Round for a Discussion Without a Neat Answer
A closing round for a discussion without a neat answer gives each person room to name one lasting thought, without…