Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Rajiv Vinnakota is president of C&S. Connection, not persuasion, is the foundation of productive conversation—even across ...

Gates cheerfully admits that he “has always been more comfortable making software than small talk.” But over the years, he’s developed the skills to become a good conversationalist. Here’s some of ...

Conversation errors like interrupting, dismissive language, or asking only closed-ended questions can make others feel unheard or disrespected. Everyday conversation habits can strengthen ...

My best conversations are with my friend Rich. He doesn’t have extraordinary speaking talents or the ability to tell side-splitting jokes. It’s just that after talking with Rich, I somehow feel ...

The conversation doesn’t start when you speak. It starts before that. Learn how leaders use pre-communication to earn attention and drive engagement. When you need to have an important conversation, ...