You are at a party or some sort of social gathering and sure enough you find yourself in a boring conversation. Part of you wants to scream and get the h*ll out of there, but that’s really not an option. Yes, you are stuck but maybe you can start seeing it as a challenge.
Preparing ahead of time can be very helpful. Think about three things to talk about and hopefully they will bring up something as well. Remember that practice is where it’s at!
8 Tips for Making A Conversation More Interesting
- Keep the Conversation Focused on the Other Person.
- *Find Points of Commonality & Connection.
- Keep up with Popular movies, series, tv shows, and sports!
- Stay Informed about Current Events.
- *Focus on the Conversation and show interest with body language and eye contact.
- Ask Personal Questions about their loved ones, hobbies or how a current transition (new job, newly single…) is going.
- *Ask Open-Ended Questions… Start with What, Why, or How and not a Yes/No Question with no follow up. Did you enjoy the… or Did you notice… Follow up with something more specific.
- Handle Controversial Topics Delicately. Be curious (not hostile) if differences come up. To be safe, stay away from politics and religion.
Additional details…
1. Ask about their passions or interests. Then ask another question related to whatever they share. Try to steer the conversation towards what interests you too!
2. Where do they live, work or grow up or go to college… This is a great way to identify people or places you both know. It’s easier to connect when you have points of commonality.
3. For lighter conversation talk baseball, basketball or football!! Ask about their favorite movie, show or book. What do they do for fun!
4. Current events especially “hot” ones (hurricanes!) are good conversation starters. Local things going on or an unusual human interest story usually work at least for a little while.
5. 90% of communication is non verbal. Don’t look or lean away when someone is talking. Show interest by nodding, leaning in a bit, looking at them and smiling!
6. Please don’t think it’s wrong to ask a personal question. Most people love to share stories about their life. Stay away from questions that are too personal or may make someone uncomfortable. Use your best judgement. We all make mistakes!
7. If you ask a question that can be answered yes or no, now where do you go? Keep asking open ended questions to make it easier to stay engaged.
8. It may be exciting to bring up a controversial topic but there are better ways to stay away from boring. Don’t do it!!
Motivation increases once your pain gets really bad. I wish it didn’t have to get to that point, but it’s human nature. My tips help if you are very motivated to have better social experiences. This requires pushing past your discomfort and staying committed to your goal. Good support helps.
Cheers to Challenges!
MarGO!
Margo Geller CSW, CRC
Professional Counselor
Personal, Business, Life Coach
404-218-4559
MargoGeller@Gmail.com
MargoGeller.com
