7 Keys to a Flawless Conversation - How to start, continue and end a talk, by Colette Carlson
The
ability to hold a natural conversation is key to success in the professional
world. Knowing when to initiate a discussion, keeping it interesting by asking
effective questions, sharing your own stories and ending dialogue with kindness
is an art.
So, are
you a smooth talker? Learn how to create connections in conversations by
following these seven steps:
1. Exude
confidence. When
you’re comfortable in your own skin, you make others
comfortable. If you take the attitude that you bring something to the table,
you will see that attitude reflected in others. Remember: Enthusiasm is
infectious.
2. Show
up with something to say. Always be on the lookout for material. Although it may sound contrived,
I read The Wall Street Journal looking for interesting, timely information
that I can share at my next get-together: a party, association meeting or
business affair. Think about keeping a file that you can review before your
next event.
3. Begin
with a question. Besides
showing interest in someone, one simple question
can start an entire conversation. Asking something a bit unusual sets you apart
from the crowd. Rather than, “What do you do?” ask, “How do you enjoy spending
your weekends?”
4. Find
common ground. The
surest way to build rapport is to find something you have in common and build
on that interest. Don’t shy away from topics that have nothing to do with
business. They often create the perfect connection.
5. Focus
on others. Putting
your energy and interest in another person marks you as a great
conversationalist. Englishman Raymond Mortimer once described the art of
conversation in the United States as “not tennis, in which you return the other
fellow’s serve, but gold, in which you go on hitting your own ball.” Keep that
back and forth volley going with conversation.
6. Be
inclusive.
Excluding others in the group is a conversation killer. Make eye contact with
everyone in the group, not just the person who asked you a direct question.
7. Close
a conversation with class. When a conversation naturally lulls, take advantage and say, “It’s been
a pleasure talking with you. I hope our paths cross again soon.” Before
leaving, be sure to thank the hosts.
- See
more at:
http://www.success.com/article/7-keys-to-a-flawless-conversation#sthash.1dHQcw4B.dpuf
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