Here are the top 3 takeaways from Bill Gates' must-read book.

Gates recommended a list of books for the upcoming summer, but only one he labeled as a "must-read."

David Brooks' book 'How To Know A Person' provides insights and strategies for improving communication and connection with others.

"Gates emphasized that the book is not just a guide to better conversations but a blueprint for a more connected and humane way of living in his blog post last month. He urged readers to read it to deepen their relationships and broaden their perspectives."

Brooks' book explores three themes that can enhance your understanding of others: curiosity, empathy, and self-awareness.

The power of curiosity

According to Brooks, some people are better conversationalists because they are skilled at showing genuine interest in others and allowing them to express themselves freely.

He refers to individuals who brighten up as "illuminators," while those who diminish are known as "diminishers."

"Illuminators are curious about you and want to ask you questions, while diminishers do not feel the same way and do not ask questions."

Mastering communication and public speaking is the ultimate guide.

People tend to feel more comfortable sharing with someone who genuinely cares about them, according to Brooks. They appreciate when questions are asked thoughtfully and at the right moment. However, diminishers often ask questions that are not open-ended or use the conversation as an opportunity to talk about themselves.

Gates wrote on his blog that those observations have been "really helpful in my own life." He emphasizes the importance of asking "open-ended questions" to encourage people to share their experiences and perspectives in a more in-depth way.

Empathy-building skills

Comprehending and empathizing with others' narratives can enhance the effectiveness of your conversations.

"A person is a unique perspective. Each individual you encounter is an artist who shapes their own worldview through life experiences," Brooks remarks, further stating: "Individuals require validation from others to flourish. People yearn for someone to acknowledge them with unconditional love."

Breaking down showing empathy into three separate skills can make it easier to do.

"In October 2023, he shared with the "Everything Happens" podcast that the first skill is mirroring, which is similar to catching emotions. The second skill is mentalizing, where he forms a theory based on past experience about what someone is feeling. Finally, the third skill is caring."

When someone discusses a sensitive topic with you, take note of their words and actions. Reflect their message back to them using phrases such as "I understand what you're saying" or "It seems like you're saying...".

Brooks writes that rounding out a conversation by letting someone know you're there for them is important.

'What am I missing here?'

To better understand the perspectives of others, Brooks suggests embracing introspection and self-awareness, as stated in an October 2023 New York Times article.

""I carry a lot of elite baggage, write for elite publications, and used to teach at Yale. People on the left and the right may see me as embedded in systems that they feel disrespect them or keep them down," he wrote."

Instead of being argumentative or defensive, Brooks challenged himself to ask: "What am I missing here?"

To identify biases and reprogram your approach to people, Brooks recommends seeking feedback from friends, loved ones, and colleagues on how they view you, as building self-awareness on your own is challenging.

"To accurately assess their adult legacies of childhood wounds, people need friends who can offer an outside perspective."

To become a successful and confident communicator, enroll in CNBC's online course, "Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking." Our program will teach you how to speak clearly and confidently, manage your nerves, choose the right words and body language, and make a great first impression. Sign up now and use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount through July 10, 2024.

Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive expert advice on work, money, and life.