"Yes, and..."
One of the most powerful and productive phrases in business comes from improv-theater.
"Yes, and....." Two simple words that help you improve on good relationships and discover great ideas at the same time.
Words like "but" and "or" work to cut off the previous idea and the person who presented it.
The idea conveyed with "Yes, and....", builds new ideas upon previous, thus creates a collaborative learning atmosphere rather than creating a need to defend yourself. It also shows respect for the other person.
To improve your own conversations and foster more goal oriented creative conversations make this phrase and the mind set that comes with it part of every interaction.
Bonus: You and those you contact will enjoy your interactions.