Lifetime Conversation Guide

by James K. Van Fleet

Whether at home or at work, you spend a lot of your waking hours conversing with other people. You try to influence their behavior by advising, ordering, and persuading--but all too often, you fail to get through to them. Here are scores of "conversation power" techniques you can use to control the behavior of others in virtually any family, business, or social situation. Without ever raising your voice, you can get anyone to do what you want, the way you want--and do it gladly.Once you learn these simple methods of verbal persuasion, you'll wield an almost magical power over everyone--and win the respect, support, and friendship of everyone you meet!

Genres: Business, Self Help

320 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1984

Reviews

[Jenn Bradshaw · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one floated into our store inventory, and I was curious as a business owner and an aspiring mentor/coach. Having finished the book, I have mixed feelings.

Mr. Van Fleet lays out numerous healthy conversation habits, such as how to actively listen, how to ask leading questions, how to relate well to your spouse and children. That said, half of the book could probably be cut in editing - he constantly reiterates what he just said, and continually tries to sell the reader on the benefits of what he's about to teach you.

I also found the book dated (it was published in 1984), and frequently condescending towards women. However, if you are willing to put on your hip-waders and muck through the irrelevant and chauvinism, you'll discover a wealth of solid advice on marketing, networking, and general conversation.

[Esmel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much of the advice is common sense. The author uses a "tell them what you are going to tell them, tell them, and then tell them what you told them" type of writing style for each chapter. Each chapter could have been improved with more real life examples. Some of the chapters could have been flushed out better - there were a few where the author doesn't cover everything he says he is going to cover. It is very easy to skim the book, so it makes for a fast read. The book has its place but could be updated in our world of electronic communications and social media, though the author has likely passed. Some good advice, but needs work.