In this unit you will be shown how to react and respond politely in English. You will also find useful phrases for everyday conversations, helping you to speak with more confidence.
Conversational skills
Whenever more than one speaker is involved e.g. in everyday conversations, dialogues, discussions, debates, group discussions and so on, additional skills are needed for effective communication:
- listening actively
- expressing / asking for opinion
- responding politely
- giving feedback / receiving feedback
- Wh-questions
Do you want to find out more about different types of conversations? Check out our Video on that topic!
Helpful phrases for communication situations
Keeping cool in difficult communication situations
Having to handle discussions on controversial topics, with several participants or in exam settings can sometimes get heated or become stressful.
To react and respond in challenging situation let’s recap:
- structure your thoughts / feelings
- make clear statements
- be respectful
- give feedback
- be open to receiving feedback
- ask for clarification
- listen actively
- focus on solution
- when unsure, take a moment to think
These strategies might always come in useful, when it gets challenging:
1 Wh-Questions
| Who | ||
| What | help to track of what is going on and | |
| When | ⟹ | to make sure you are aware |
| Where | of everything being discussed. | |
| Why |
2 “Red, Yellow, Green“ Technique
