Improve Your Conversations: Think on Your Feet, Witty Banter, and Always Know What to Say with Improv Comedy Techniques (2nd Edition) (How to be More Likable and Charismatic Book 13)

In most cases, when you stop people outright with a “No,” it will make them defensive because you have probably just shot down something they wanted to convey.

make it your goal to first and foremost create a playful and fun atmosphere within your conversations, avoiding interview mode and small talk,

It’s that you can’t stay on the same topic forever, and the conversation needs to evolve in one way or another, or else interest will be lost.

you don’t actually need to know much about the topics presented; you just have to be able to give a general statement, which is far easier.

You’re almost saying, “What? That’s the best you can do? Tell me something I don’t already know,” which completely takes the wind out of the other person’s sails, but without causing any bad blood.

First, it provides a three-dimensional description of the context and characters involved. That automatically makes people more interested and invested because they are already painting a mental picture in their minds and visualizing everything.

Here is the yes, AND reply: “Yeah, it’s pretty great. I love mushrooms too, but never sardines.” See how the sentiment is agreed with and expanded upon?

When you provide details and observe not only how they react, but also what details they give you in response, you create opportunities to have fun, free-flowing conversations.

The underlying emotional content is one of subtle rejection, as though the person has simply thrown the baton you passed them on the ground. Not only does this kill the flow, it also puts a lot of responsibility on the other person to try and think of something else that will stick.