Want to impress people?  Talk about them.  Here’s a Harvard study that isn’t stogy.  They analyzed conversations among strangers in laboratory settings and real-world speed dating events – yes, speed dating was included.  People who asked more questions — especially follow-up questions based on what the other person had just said — were significantly better liked by their conversation partners. Participants also perceived them as more responsive, attentive and caring.

Most people underestimate how powerful this simple habit is. Study participants generally believed asking more questions wouldn’t make them more likable, even though the data showed the opposite.

Great conversationalists aren’t necessarily the best talkers.  They are people who make others feel heard and for all the popular talk about the importance of being seen and heard,  it begins with a question and a follow-up.

“People who ask more questions, particularly follow-up questions, are better liked by their conversation partners.”

Thanks for sharing DayStarters