We Need to Talk

How to Have Conversations That Matter

By: Celeste Headlee

Narrated by: Celeste Headlee

“WE NEED TO TALK.”

They are, perhaps, the most dreaded four words in the English language. But in her timely, insightful, and wonderfully practical audiobook, We Need to Talk, Celeste Headlee—who earns a living by talking on the airwaves of National Public Radio—makes the case that they are urgently needed.

Today most of us communicate from behind electronic screens, and studies show that Americans feel less connected and more divided than ever before. The blame for some of this disconnect can be attributed to our political landscape, but the erosion of our conversational skills as a society lies with us as individuals.

And the only way forward, says Headlee, is to start talking to each other. In We Need to Talk, she outlines the strategies that have made her a better conversationalist—and offers simple tools that can improve anyone’s communication. For example:

• BE THERE OR GO ELSEWHERE. Human beings are incapable of multitasking, and this is especially true of tasks that involve language. Think you can type up a few emails while on a business call, or hold a conversation with your child while texting your spouse? Think again.
• CHECK YOUR BIAS. The belief that your intelligence protects you from erroneous assumptions can end up making you more vulnerable to them. We all have blind spots that affect the way we view others. Check your bias before you judge someone else.
• HIDE YOUR PHONE. Don’t just put down your phone, put it away. New research suggests that the mere presence of a cell phone can negatively impact the quality of a conversation.

Whether you’re struggling to communicate with your kid’s teacher at school, an employee at work, or the people you love the most—Headlee offers smart strategies that can help us all have conversations that matter.

very relevant to today's political climate

This book was packed with good information and advice that I will be applying to my professional conversations. It made me more aware of bad habits that I, unintentionally, was exhibiting during conversations and also made me really appreciate the couple friends I talk to about random stuff all the time - because listening is an act of love.

loved it

Communication skills and listening skills are the key to better relationships! A must have! Highly recomended!

fantastic starting place

specifically identified multiple deficiencies I have with having and being present in meaningful conversations and helped me formulate actual plans to correct.

I'm listening

it was very good. lots of lights shed,
I encourage those that least think can use this book to give it a shot....the most.
thanks for your words.

awesome!

Everyone should be required to read this book. Learned so much about things I need to improve in my day to day interactions with friends, colleagues, and family.