How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Steering the conversation

Techniques > Conversation techniques > Steering the conversation

When you are seeking to gain specific things from a conversation rather than it being idle chit-chat, then you need to retain control of what is said and when. Here are some thoughts about how you can keep your hand firmly on the tiller.

Control answering of questions: Do not just blindly answer everything.
Initiate new topics: Start something new.
Manage the process: Control how to control what.
Manage the small talk: Small talk leads to big talk. Start at the beginning.

Steering the conversation

See also