The most important thing about talking

Angie Flynn-McIver

April 21, 2020

For several years, I sent out a blog to readers a few times a week. These posts gave pointers about how to practice, shared relevant stories, and provided a way for people to connect with my coaching approach. In 2022, I wrote my book, Before You Say Anything, which brought many of these ideas together in one place. The blog posts have continued to resonate with clients and readers, and they're useful as a quick reminder, so I'm including them here!

The most important thing about talking is listening. Put less glibly, the most important aspect of communication is listening.

How do we listen more fully, more actively?

And right now, how can we make sure we’re listening to people when we aren’t in the same place and we all have a lot on our minds?

Catch your own assumptions. Ask for clarification and listen to the answers. Reflect back: “I think you are saying X. Is that right? What have I missed? What else do I need to know?”

Slow way down. Wait. Pause. Listen. Think about your intention and your assumptions. Then speak.

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Angie Flynn-McIver coaches senior leaders and keynote speakers to communicate with clarity, impact, and self-awareness. Her background in professional theatre directing gives her work a distinctive edge: she understands performance and what it takes to hold a room. She is the author of Before You Say Anything, co-founder of the award-winning North Carolina Stage Company, and holds both a PCC credential from the International Coaching Federation and an M.S. in Organizational Development and Leadership.

Angie Flynn-McIver Leadership Communication

Located in Asheville, North Carolina
Serving clients worldwide