How to Talk So People Will Listen

by Stephen W. Brown

Words are powerful when they are used correctly. If readers want to motivate their kids or employees, convince bosses to give them a raise, speak with confidence to large groups of people, or give a report that won't leave people snoozing, "How to Talk So People Will Listen" is the classic resource they need. Expert communicator Steve Brown shows readers how to speak with authority, win an argument, overcome their fears of public speaking, and more.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1993

About the author

Steve Brown is a radio broadcaster, author, and the founder of Key Life Network. A former pastor, he also sits on the board of Harvest USA and devotes much of his time to the radio broadcasts Key Life and Steve Brown, Etc.

Reviews

[Steven Jacke · Rating 2 out of 5]

In some ways, it's not terrible. It's easy enough to read, clearly and concisely written. It has some humor. He defends his approach to public speaking through his experiences rather than studies.

It's also mildly homophobic, with a dash of misogny. It's not the worst from a Christian I've read, but I felt like I was reading something from the 90's. If he's going to say it's a book for both Christians and non-Christians, he should fix that.

[Martin Bour · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each chapter hits on different areas of communication. Some might resonate with you more than others.

For me those chapters were
Ch 8: No Wasted Conversation
I’m not a conversationalist and find it hard to start a conversation or know when to end one. He helps point out the signals to watch for.

Ch 9: Winning An Argument
With stressful conflicts with coworkers this chapter really helped me take an objective look at situations I was facing.

He identifies four types of people you might argue with and describes ways to deal with them.

Mine? Level Four: Argument with an Angry Enemy
Key take away: “don’t argue; don’t argue; don’t argue”

Other tips
“keep short accounts”
“apologize quickly”
“affirm easily”
“compromise often”

Literally started seeing change the week I read that chapter!

Other chapters on topics like giving speeches were less relevant but helpful.

One thing that’s nice is that throughout the book Steve provides encouragement and reassurance that despite failures you’re gonna be fine!

[Zarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

*2.5 stars

Book 13 in quarantine

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this, but they weren’t quite met. There were some good points but he seemed to speak more about religion than about listening....

[Shani · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great book.
It mainly focuses on public speaking, but is relevant to effective communication in general. This book has a lot of great tips and applications. It can be repetitive, and some anecdotes are drawn out, but I ultimately enjoyed the book. It's an easy read.

[Ela Ozcan · Rating 1 out of 5]

talked more about christianity than not- i thought he advertised this for all?

[Mike Maroon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steve Brown writes like he talks, clearly, easy to understand, and with authority. This book isn't deep, which is precisely why it's effective. Rather than trying to provide a textbook to make you a super duper speaker, he gives you what you need to get started, knowing if you can follow a few simple principles you will likely be well on your way to getting people to listen when you talk. Written in a conversational style, this is an easy read, yet you will feel like you've learned something.

[Chris Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read and very practical. Perfect for those who either struggle with, lack confidence or are just looking to improve upon their public speaking