It’s a fascinating concept, isn’t it? The idea that certain phrases can shape the tide of a conversation.

Take it from me, an ardent student of psychology, there’s a world of difference between simply talking and truly communicating.

High-level communicators – those magical beings who seem to navigate any conversation with finesse and ease – they’ve mastered this difference.

These folks aren’t spinning lies or deploying slick sales tactics. Instead, they’re using a specific set of phrases that psychology suggests can effectively steer dialogue while preserving sincerity and mutual respect.

I’ve got seven of these phrases for you, each one a little gem that high-level communicators tend to slip seamlessly into their conversations.

Intrigued? Good. Let’s dive right in.

1) “I understand…”

In the vast realm of communication, there’s a profound difference between hearing and truly understanding.

High-level communicators grasp this distinction well. They’re not just passively absorbing words; they’re connecting with the person they’re conversing with on a deeper level.

This is where the phrase “I understand” works like a charm.

It’s a simple affirmation, yet it has the power to validate someone’s feelings or thoughts, making them feel heard and respected.

When you confirm your understanding, you establish a rapport and a sense of debt, subtly encouraging continued dialogue and openness.

But remember, it’s essential that your declaration of understanding isn’t just lip service. Authenticity is key here; if you don’t truly comprehend, ask for clarification.

After all, high-level communication is less about smooth talking and more about sincere connection.

2) “Help me understand…”

Evolving from the previous point, let’s talk about a phrase I personally swear by – “Help me understand…”.

A while back, I found myself in a heated debate with a colleague over a project timeline. The conversation was spiralling into a full-blown argument when I paused and said, “Help me understand your perspective on this.”

The atmosphere shifted immediately. The phrase not only cooled tempers but also opened the door to a more thoughtful discussion. We ended up finding common ground and a solution that worked for both of us.

Carl Rogers, a renowned psychologist, famously said, “When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good.”

By saying “Help me understand…”, you’re expressing genuine interest in the other person’s viewpoint. It shows respect for their thoughts and feelings and encourages them to share more openly.

Again, it’s not about winning an argument; it’s about fostering understanding and building stronger connections.

3) “Let’s look at this from another angle…”

Ever found yourself stuck in a conversation that feels like it’s going around in circles? We’ve all been there.

This is where the phrase “Let’s look at this from another angle…” comes in handy.

It’s a nifty little tool high-level communicators use to shift perspective and break free from conversational cul-de-sacs.

It’s not about dismissing the existing viewpoint, but rather inviting fresh perspectives to enrich the dialogue.

Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, once said, “The mind is like an iceberg, it floats with one-seventh of its bulk above water.”

This quote beautifully encapsulates the idea that there’s always more beneath the surface.

By changing the angle of the conversation, you’re delving into that unexplored underwater part of the iceberg, bringing to light ideas and insights that were previously unseen.

Remember though, it’s crucial to do this with empathy and respect. If used thoughtlessly, it could come across as dismissive. But when done right, it can open up a world of possibilities in any conversation.

4) “Let’s consider the facts…”

High-level communicators aren’t just smooth talkers; they’re skilled at grounding conversations in reality. That’s where the phrase “Let’s consider the facts…” comes into play.

This phrase is a gentle yet effective way to steer conversations away from conjecture and bias and towards concrete evidence. It’s about staying objective and making decisions based on what is known and proven.

When you say, “Let’s consider the facts…”, you’re not just expressing your commitment to truth. You’re also implicitly encouraging others to do the same, fostering a more informed, balanced, and fruitful conversation.

Of course, it’s crucial to approach this tactic with sensitivity, as it can easily be misconstrued as dismissive if not handled with care.

But when used appropriately, it can be a powerful tool in any high-level communicator’s toolkit.

5) “I appreciate your input…”

Sincere appreciation can be a game-changer in a conversation. As such, “I appreciate your input…” is a phrase I often find myself using in various interactions.

This simple yet impactful phrase does two things – it validates the other person’s contribution and encourages them to share more. It’s an acknowledgment that their thoughts and feelings matter.

Albert Bandura, a renowned psychologist, said, “People who believe they have the power to exercise some measure of control over their lives are healthier, more effective, and more successful than those who lack faith in their ability to effect changes in their lives.”

When you express gratitude for someone’s input, you empower them and affirm their ability to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.

This not only boosts their confidence but also nurtures a more collaborative and open dialogue.

Remember though; sincerity is key here. Empty compliments can feel patronizing. So when you say, “I appreciate your input…”, ensure that you genuinely mean it.

6) “I could be wrong…”

Now, here’s a phrase that might seem a bit counterintuitive – “I could be wrong…”.

It might feel like an admission of weakness, but in reality, it’s a sign of strength. High-level communicators understand the power of humility in conversation.

The phrase “I could be wrong…” opens up space for others to share their views without fear of conflict. It shows that you’re open to different perspectives and you’re not stubbornly attached to your own.

By admitting that you could be wrong, you’re embracing this growth mindset and fostering an environment where ideas can flow freely.

Just remember, this isn’t about diminishing your own views; it’s about creating an open-ended conversation where all opinions are valued.

7) “Thank you…”

Last but certainly not least, a phrase that holds immense power in its simplicity – “Thank you…”.

It’s a cornerstone in the vocabulary of high-level communicators, signifying respect and appreciation for the other person’s time and thoughts.

As psychologist William James noted, “The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.”

A sincere “Thank you…” goes a long way in meeting this deep-seated need, creating a positive atmosphere and leaving a lasting impression. Never underestimate the power of these two little words.

Final reflections

Weaving these phrases into your daily conversations might seem like a small change, but their impact can be truly profound.

High-level communication isn’t about mastering an art of persuasion or deploying clever tactics.

It’s about fostering genuine connections, respecting differing perspectives, and creating a space where ideas and feelings can be shared openly.

These phrases are tools that can help us navigate that space with more empathy and understanding.

They remind us that the essence of communication is less about speaking and more about listening; less about imposing our views and more about inviting others to share theirs.

As you continue your journey in becoming a high-level communicator, keep these phrases close to hand. Let them guide you towards more meaningful, enriching conversations.

And always remember, the beauty of communication lies not in the eloquence of our words but in the sincerity of our intent.