Short answers

Techniques > Conversation techniques > Closing the conversation > Short answers

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

When you are asked about something, give short answers, rather than going on at length (remember that you are trying to close things down, not open them up).

Keep what you say closely related to what was said before -- you do not want to open up new areas of discussion for the other person.

Do not be controversial. Agree rather than disagree.

Example

Yes, I can see what you mean.

I'm not sure. I'll have to think about it.

I like that. I'll tell Terry.

Discussion

Short answers both shorten the conversation by themselves and also give the other person few hooks to pick up on to extend the conversation in another direction.