Four Keys to Conversation: Stop, Look, Listen, and Watch
Meeting Strangers
Relax and listen. Most conversational errors are committed those who talk too much.
The practical rule for continuing a conversation is just take it one word at a time. Don't think about the entire conversation, just respond to one-step-at-a-time.
Think First
Listen carefully to your own words and pay attention to the reaction of the person you are speaking to. You must think before speaking.
Conversation Topics
While some people have a natural charm they can rely on during conversation, most of us are best served if we rely on sincerity, clarity, and an intelligent choice of conversational subject.
New Acquaintances
Introduce yourself immediately. Many times it is up to you as a guest to make your own introductions.
Always start by giving your own name. "Hello. I'm George Washington," you may say, extending your hand if you wish. You can also add, "I'm a friend of Judy's." If this does not elicit a response other than "Hello," you may then say "And you are... ?" or "And what is your name?"
In talking to a person you have just met and about whom you know nothing, the best approach is to find a common interest.
Start by referring to your host or hostess: How do you know them?
- "stop" - do not speak without stopping to think about what you are about to say
- "look" - pay attention to the expression of the person with whom you are talking;
- "listen" - listening is the most important conversational skill.
- "watch" - keep your eyes on whomever you are talking with.
Meeting Strangers
Relax and listen. Most conversational errors are committed those who talk too much.
The practical rule for continuing a conversation is just take it one word at a time. Don't think about the entire conversation, just respond to one-step-at-a-time.
Think First
Listen carefully to your own words and pay attention to the reaction of the person you are speaking to. You must think before speaking.
Conversation Topics
While some people have a natural charm they can rely on during conversation, most of us are best served if we rely on sincerity, clarity, and an intelligent choice of conversational subject.
New Acquaintances
Introduce yourself immediately. Many times it is up to you as a guest to make your own introductions.
Always start by giving your own name. "Hello. I'm George Washington," you may say, extending your hand if you wish. You can also add, "I'm a friend of Judy's." If this does not elicit a response other than "Hello," you may then say "And you are... ?" or "And what is your name?"
In talking to a person you have just met and about whom you know nothing, the best approach is to find a common interest.
Start by referring to your host or hostess: How do you know them?
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