Better Conversations, Better Outcomes: Insights from Alan Brereton at the GM Forum

At a recent General Managers Forum at NCI Spencer Dock, Alan Brereton, Director at Kingstown College, delivered a thought provoking session on how our everyday language habits shape conversations, relationships, and ultimately, leadership outcomes.

Alan challenged participants to examine their conversational defaults—phrases like “I’m grand” or “just checking in”—which often hinder real engagement. Highlighting the principle that “words create worlds,” he drew on Appreciative Inquiry and positive psychology to show how the language we use can either open or shut down meaningful dialogue.

A central takeaway was the power of intentional communication. Alan encouraged slowing down, using clear and non-leading language, and replacing habitual questions with those that invite deeper reflection—“What could it be instead?” or “Tell me more about that.” These subtle shifts foster clarity, empathy, and better problem-solving.

He introduced a conversation model based on support and challenge—coaching style conversations sit at the sweet spot: high support, high challenge. These guide individuals out of rumination and toward action, while respecting emotional complexity. Ferris reminded the group that the emotional brain responds 14 times faster than the logical one—so pause, listen, and don’t jump to solutions.

In leadership, this means listening 80% of the time, asking open questions, and co-designing communication norms, especially in virtual settings. The goal? Move beyond surface talk to unlock insight, motivation, and alignment.

Alan’s message was clear: Great conversations don’t happen by accident— they’re shaped by awareness, empathy, and better habits. And that starts with each of us.