50 Ways to Fuel a Conversation

conversationalist is becoming invested in the conversation and actively working to help the other person feel comfortable. Take

Here are a few tips business professionals can use to improve their small talk skills: • Be the first to say hello! • Introduce yourself. Act as if you’re the host and introduce new arrivals to your conversation partner or partners. • Smile first and always shake hands when you meet someone. • Take your time during introductions! Make an extra effo

make a commitment to use at least four of them in your next conversation. If you’re afraid you won’t remember them, write them down, put them in your pocket, and refer to them before you to go into the event. If you go blank while you’re there, excuse yourself for a moment and walk into the restroom to take a peek at your list. The most famous and

a group of three or more look around in the hope that others will maintain eye contact on their behalf. Yet people don’t feel listened to if you’re not looking at them. • Get somebody to talk about why they’re attending the event. You are now on your way to engaging them in conversation. • Show an interest in every person. The more interest you sho

Also, don’t be afraid to ask people you strike up random conversations

ask questions of your conversation partner that begin with “How…?” and “What…?” That is, questions that invite open-ended, constructive answers, rather than “Why…?” questions that demand justifications or “Do you…?” questions with yes/no answers.

So here’s some simple and practical advice: most people like to talk about themselves—give them the opportunity to do so. Being a good listener and asking questions about others is a simple but effective way to use a resource everyone has—time and attention—to build power.