“If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?: My Adventures in the Art and Science of Relating and Communicating” written by Alan Alda probably has one of the longest book titles I’ve read in a while, but once you get past that, there is a lot of useful information and tips for how to be a better communicator. And when I say useful, I mean immediately useful. For instance, as I was reading the book, I was able to immediately use several of the tips right away in my job. I used the tips in this book on my boyfriend, my boyfriend’s mother, my boss, my coworkers, my own mother, my colleagues from partner organizations, my office receptionist, and even the people I’m endeavoring to get grant money from. Though some of the tips may seem simplistic, such as using a person’s name when speaking with them, leading with a genuine compliment, or thanking them sincerely, when put together, the book outlines the keys to success in communication. Though there is quite a lot of reference to communicating well in the scientific field, the tips in this book can be used just as well with anyone looking to become a better communicator. I particularly enjoyed the parts of the book where Alda talks about “relating” in terms of theatre improvisation. “Relating” in the realm of theatre is all about reading the other person and reacting appropriately in a split second. I enjoyed reading these portions of the book because theatre was always something scary for me. I never liked being in front of other people, so I avoided those situations that put me at the center of attention. After reading the book, I was motivated to learn more about the techniques of theatre and even share them with my colleagues in the same field as me so we can all benefit from the lessons of improv and improve our communication skills. Overall, I was pleased with the conversational tone of the book and the fact that I felt more knowledgeable after reading. I will likely be referring back to sections of this book as I progress in my career. In fact, I will most definitely be using several of the tips from this book in order to advance my career and do better at my job and in life. Recommended read.

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Created Jan 05, 2020 at 11:20am • Submit your own review...