Let's Talk
It's not always easy to know what to say to keep a conversation going. But believe it or not, chatting is a lot like riding a bike, playing an instrument, or any other skill. The more you practice, the better you get.
Break the ice
You may be shy. You may have nothing to say. But if you stand silently beside another person, how is she to know you're not just unfriendly? Ask some questions: "Are you from here?" "Have you seen any movies lately?" The more she talks, the more relaxed you'll both feel.
Take turns
A conversation is like a tennis match. You say something. The other person takes your thought and bops back one of her own. That's how it goes: back and forth, back and forth. If one or the other holds on to the ball and starts talking nonstop, the game is kaput.
Listen
We all like a good listener because she makes us feel that our thoughts and feelings matter. If you want to become a better listener, do this:
* Encourage the other person to talk by asking questions.
* Let them know you've heard what they said by commenting on it.
* Don't always switch the subject back to yourself.
Interrupting
Wait till the other person stops talking before you start. If you want to drive somebody crazy- Drive somebody cra- If you want to drive somebody crazy- ARGH! ISAIDifyouwanttodrivesomebodyCRAZY, interrupting is a good way to do it!
Zzzzz
If someone's boring you:
* Try to change the subject.
* Make a nice excuse. ("I'd better go to____." "I think I'll get a juice." "Guess I better leave now. See you soon!") Then make your escape.
But don't:
* Let your eyes wander around the room, looking for other people you'd rather be with.
* Say "Can we change the subject? This is boring."
* Walk off without saying anything.
If you want to avoid boring other people:
* Ask them questions.
* Talk about something other than yourself.
* Don't talk all the time.
* Don't tell really long stories, give really long speeches, or describe every little detail of a dream, TV show or movie.
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