Four Keys To Good Coffee Conversations
I start the day with a cup of coffee. It’s part of my morning ritual. Ground and brewed at home. I usually drink it black just for convenience.
According to the rules of etiquette, coffee is “to be served after an evening meal, in the living room followed by chocolates and liqueurs.” But I think we have broken past those rules and we now serve coffee anytime.
Howard Schultz said, “I was taken by the power that savoring a simple cup of coffee can have to connect people and create community.” The most important thing about our coffee is who we share it with.
Here are a few keys that will improve your coffee and conversation with friends.
First: Listen to what they are saying. If you have a phone, put it down. If you were reading, stop and listen. They will always remember what an enjoyable conversation they had with you.
Second: Ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing. “How did you feel about that?” “What did you say then?” “Tell me more.”
Third: Accept your friend. They are just talking and hopefully sharing. They haven’t asked you to pass judgment on anything. Stay open.
Fourth: Remember that there is much more of the conversation in the feelings than in the words. Watch their face and body posture as they talk.
Enjoy your conversations today. And enjoy your coffee!