5 Tips on How to Be a Better Conversationalist

You want to be a better conversationalist? Awesome, to be honest, I myself have the habit of saying the wrong thing, at the wrong time. I'm not just a writer, I'm a candidate for this advice.

I. Know your audience

Are you speaking in a group of people that includes people you aren't familiar with, stay away from religion, politics and any other subject that divides people, or could possibly offend.

II. Engage, listen and include

Make sure you are including others, even if you have a lot of information on the subject of the conversation, doesn't mean you should overstep the conversation with too much of your own opinion.

III. Avoid over-sharing

Remember, sometimes less is more, ask open ended questions for the group and give them a chance to speak. KEEP IN MIND, this is a friendly conversation.

IV. Be genuine

Be yourself. Don't try to talk in a manner you're not familiar with, nearly everyone has the ability to know a disingenuous speaker, even if they've just met them.

V. Listen, and maintain an open mind

Listen to what others have to say, it can only add to the knowledge you already have on a subject, if you want to jump in, make sure the current speaker has already made their point, you can't go wrong with "is it okay if I add something?" Just make sure your point is related to what the previous speaker was discussing.