The Pattern of Conversation

Questions Answers Comments 1 2

A comment is a verbal remark, opinion, and/or criticism. A comment is providing additional information to a conversation. Comment Starter Examples: I… I think….I like….My favorite…. I love… I wonder…. That is… This is...

The Pattern of Conversation Questions, Answers, and Comments

Taking Turns and Staying on Topic Helps you to Pay Attention to the Speaker and the Listener

In a conversation, when you…. Take turns Stay on topic Pay attention You FEEL GOOD because this skill helps you to… Make and Keep Friends Get What You Need

Taking Turns and Staying on Topic Handout

Knowing how to communicate with people in the right context for a given situation is an important skill, as there are often unspoken rules and standards that are just expected. Adapted from Skills to Pay the Bills-Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success - Funded by ODEP

Your conversation should match where you are and who you are with. Work Hanging out with friends Attending music class

How do you greet your friends? Hanging out with friends

Work How do you greet your co workers at work? How do you greet your supervisor at work?

How would you greet your music instructor at the start of class? Attending music class

Family How do you greet your mom and dad?

Cousin Friend Cousin Sibling Aunts/U ncles Father Mother ME Social Network: Personal discussions should only be with those in your first two circles.

YES or NO Can I talk about my weight or the weight of my other co-workers in the workplace? NO

YES or NO Can I ask my co-worker how much he makes and how much he spent on his new car in the workplace? NO

YES or NO Can I negatively talk about my customers with my co-workers in the workplace? NO

YES or NO Can I ask my co- worker how long he has worked for the company? YES

WEIGHT NEGATIVE COMMENTS ABOUT A PERSON/THINGS: HAIR, CLOTHES, SHOES, FOOD MONEY PERSONAL MATTERS Personal Topics: Avoid discussing these topics in the workplace.

Personal Questions and Comments Handout

I learned different patterns of conversation. I learned about questions, answers, and comments. I learned the importance of taking turns and staying on topic. I learned that there are certain topics that should not be discussed in the workplace. Anything else? What did I learn from this activity?