Anju Dahiya has had a diverse and fulfilling career journey, starting as an educator in various roles from a teacher to Principal and Director of academics. Throughout her career, she has worked collaboratively with corporates to enhance educational outcomes. Her passion for empowering others led her to become a NABET-Certified soft skills trainer and career coach, where she has had the privilege of guiding individuals towards their professional goals.
This debut book, “The Big World of Small Talk: A Guide to Making Meaningful Connections through Communication Skills,” marks a significant milestone in Anju’s journey. Over the years, Anju Dahiya has founded several initiatives aimed at empowering lives. She is the founder of HUNAR, an MSME initiative focused on skill development and career coaching. Through HUNAR, she has been able to make a meaningful impact in the lives of many.
For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a storyteller. I was a collector of stories, fascinated by the experiences and journeys of others. Over time, I began to compile these stories, meeting a diverse array of people along the way. Being married to an army officer allowed me to travel across the country, experiencing both the interiors and the bustling metropolitans. As the granddaughter of a farmer and the daughter of a civil government officer, I have seen life from many perspectives.
These experiences sparked my interest in communicating with people from all walks of life. Although I love being around people, I often seek solace in reading and reflection, finding peace in my own company. I had never thought I would want to pen down a book. However, when my mother was not keeping well and eventually passed away, I started experiencing flashbacks, as if my life was unfolding before me. My mother was the inspiration behind my confidence, encouraging me to speak up and share my thoughts. She was always there to listen to my stories.
When my mother was unable to speak due to her condition, she still managed to express herself. Our family was always there to listen, not just to her words but also to her body language, gestures, and emotions. She would write down what she wanted to say, and we would respond with understanding and empathy. These experiences made me realize the profound importance of communication, encompassing both speaking and listening.
It’s often said that the biggest fear after the fear of death is public speaking. However, I beg to differ. I believe the greatest fear is the fear of being unheard. Active listening is as crucial as effective speaking. This book is not just about the art of speaking; it is a comprehensive guide to communication.
Drawing from my personal experiences and the anecdotes of those I’ve met, as well as the stories I’ve read about and listened to, I wrote this book to highlight the importance of communication skills. Through “The Big World of Small Talk: A Guide to Making Meaningful Connections through Communication Skills,” I hope to empower others to share their stories and truly listen to those of others.