A study explored ways of improving satisfying and dissatisfying conversations in order to have more effective interethnic communication. Specifically, research questions based in accommodation theory addressed what blacks feel could be done to improve both successful and unsuccessful conversations with whites. Twenty-four undergraduates at a Southwestern university completed a questionnaire for which they recalled satisfying and dissatisfying conversations with a white person and provided demographic information. Analysis produced five categories of alignment strategies: (1) asserting a point of view, (2) open mindedness, (3) lack of resolution, (4) interaction management, and (5) other orientation. Interaction management and other orientation were seen as strategies for improving already satisfying interactions while the remaining strategies were used to align dissatisfying interactions. In general, results showed that to promote alignment, respondents felt that the self should become more assertive about the topic, the other person should become more open-minded, and the conversation should be managed more smoothly through interaction management. Given the accommodation difficulties of interethnic communication, alignment strategies are important for effective interethnic relationships. Further research should test the efficacy of strategies suggested by participants in this study.A three-page reference list concludes the document. (SRT)