Be Quiet, Be Heard: The Paradox of Persuasion

by Susan R. Glaser, Peter A. Glaser

This ground-breaking book offers concrete, tangible skills for a wide range of communication challenges that organizations and individuals face. Based on 35 years of international award-winning research, it presents pragmatic models, including how to raise delicate issues, to convince without being overbearing, and to constructively resolve conflict. Using real world examples, Be Quiet, Be Heard features flexible guidelines and progressive steps to develop and sustain strong positive relationships--and, when necessary, to repair damaged ones.

Genres: Nonfiction, Leadership, Personal Development

187 pages, Paperback

First published February 6, 2006

Reviews

[George’s mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written by two pioneers in organizational communication research. Whether you want to learn how to improve family communication or create a more respectful, productive, and happy work environment, there is much to learn from this masterpiece. Everyone I know who has read this book, which includes college students, small business employees, public servants, educational institutions, large private businesses, and municipal employees, takes away practical knowledge on how to solve problems while gaining trust. This book is a life changer.

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is little especially new here that hasn’t been said elsewhere, and sometimes better (e.g., Crucial Conversations). However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t useful to be reminded. For someone who hasn't made a study of communication and conflict resolution, as I have for a couple of decades, this would be a good approach to begin improving communication skills. However, there are more actionable books out there.

The first six chapters are all both improving interpersonal, one-on-one communication skills. The transition to the last few chapters (on teamwork and presentations) seems abrupt and a bit awkward. These last few chapters seem arbitrarily attached, and the one on teamwork is a very superficial summary of some techniques that are covered in greater depth (and utility) in other sources.

Some highlights that I found especially helpful reminders:

* Trust is a byproduct of communication, not a prerequisite for it.
* Whenever we interact with another, we become part of a complex communication system. All it takes to change a system is to alter one part, but choose carefully.
* All behavior is rational to the actor.
* One unifying principle in communication: the ability to listen.
* Communication is working when problems are being solved and relationships are improving.

The book is worth reading, especially if this is your first foray into communication self-improvement.

[Esther Louw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Highly recommend to anyone who has the desire to improve communication within personal and professional spheres. Concise, succinct, and well written, it was a joy to read.

[Lena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read Be Quiet Be Heard, and I have to tell you, Be Quiet Be Heard is an under 200-page read that is fully packed. If you haven't, I will encourage you to read it.
I will be reading it again.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

People don't care WHAT you know until they know you care.

[Lexica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the contents of this book may seem familiar, especially if you're a Californian – using "I" language when arguing, things like that. And although a lot of the concepts seem very basic, they're clearly not really common sense, or more people would be using them. This was a quick read and pretty interesting. I plan to pick up a copy.

[Vishnu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Strong first five chapters or so, but the last couple seemed off-topic and out of scope. Wasn't looking for a book on public speaking, personally, and I didn't see much of a connection between that and the interpersonal communications that were the focus of the rest of the book.

[Jon Coon · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book with very tangible examples and even actual language to use in various interpersonal relationships I strongly encourage you to read this book. Not rocket science but especially useful for high potential team members seeking to advance in their careers.

[Jacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The authors are from Eugene. Heard a synopsis on NPR. Liked it. Became a better listener.

[Maren]

It's all about Listening...that's what they say. I'm hoping they'll address how I get people to listen to me! ;-)
So far I'm impressed, it is an easy to read writing style.

[Neal Lemery · Rating 3 out of 5]

This well written, easy to follow book has some good tips, and fresh thinking. It is a hearty and solid resource.

[Moni Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I