The Talkworks Guide

Conversation Manager Role

Explainer Role

Understander Role

EXPLAINER/TELLER SECTION

1. INTRODUCTION TO THE ROLE

2. ENGAGING THE OTHER PERSON’S ATTENTION FROM THE START

3. USING HEADLINES & UNDERLINES TO INTRODUCE OR SWITCH TO KEY IDEAS, ISSUES, AND TOPICS

4. PUTTING YOUR CONVERSATIONAL PARTNER IN THE PICTURE

5. FILLING IN THE PICTURE WITH USEFUL DETAIL

6. BRINGING YOUR STORIES, MESSAGES, POINTS OF VIEW AND CASES TO LIFE

7. PERSONALISING YOUR COMMUNICATION

8. ENCOURAGING QUESTIONS AND DEALING WITH THEM CAREFULLY

9. CHECKING FOR CLARITY AND UNDERSTANDING