The Library Mouse's Book Nook

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Ever had an argument with someone where you both agree, but still can’t see eye to eye? The answer, according to Charles Duhigg, might be because both of you are engaging in two wildly different conversations and just don’t know it.

Charles Duhigg is a reporter who wrote the incredibly popular book The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business that was published in 2012. Told through a collection of psychology studies and stories, Duhigg argues that all conversations can be defined into three different overarching questions: What’s this really about? How do we feel? Who are we? Duhigg defines supercommunicators as those who are incredibly in-tune with others’ emotions and can pick up on the type of conversations that are happening. Understanding these conversation types and the underlying mechanics for each can lead to better, more impactful communication.

The anecdotes in this book are a mix of history and psychology case studies. Duhigg writes in a way where his voice fades and I am focused on the story he is telling or the connection he is making. Some of the stories included dragged on for a while, but overall the author did a great job at tying each story to the point he was trying to make.

Supercommunicators is not just an interesting collection of stories but practical advice on how we can become better listeners and communicators. Duhigg offers practical advice on identifying these conversations through fascinating reporting, from a Netflix board room, a convention of hedge fund managers, to a tense jury room.

Part entertaining, part tips that I can use in every conversation, I really enjoyed Supercommunicators and think you will too.

You should check out this book if:

• You want to understand how to better communicate with friends, family, or coworkers.

• You love learning about all the ways that humans communicate.

• You love reading about psychology.