25 Ways To Improve Your Conversations

1. Be the FIRST to say Hello!

2. Make an extra effort to remember people's names, and ask a person's name if you have forgotten it.

3. Be receptive to new ideas, and be open to other people's opinions and feelings.

4. Show curiosity and interest in others and get enthusiastic about their interests.

5. Tell others about yourself, what your likes are and the important events in your life.

6. Keep abreast of current events and the issues that affect all our lives.

7. Use "I" when you talk about personal things and don't use the word "you" when you really mean "I".

8. Show others that you are a good listener by restating their comments in another manner.

9. Show your sense of humour when talking to others.

10. Balance the giving and receiving of information.

11. Show others that you are enjoying your conversations with them.

12. Ask other people their opinions.

13. Look for the positive in those you meet.

14. Start and end your conversation with a person's name and a handshake or warm greeting.

15. Take time to be cordial with your neighbours and co-workers.

16. Let others know that you want to get to know them better.

17. Ask others about things they have told you in previous conversations.

18. Listen carefully for free information.

19. Be tolerant of other people's beliefs if they differ from yours.

20. Change the topic of conversation when it has run its course.

21. Always search for another person's "hot button".

22. Compliment others about what they are wearing, doing or saying.

23. Encourage others to talk by sending out receptivity signals.

24. Make an effort to see and talk to people you enjoy.

25. When you tell a story, present the main point first and then add the supporting details afterward.




Adapted from How To Start A Conversation And Make Friends (Fireside, 2007) by Don Gabor