Upskill: Expert Shares The Mantra To Hold A Conversation

Do you struggle to hold a conversation? Do you end up getting into an awkward moment a few minutes after sitting down for a chat? Running out of things to say is a sign of a bad conversation. Fret not, You are not alone.

There are days when we all struggle to hold and end a conversation smoothly. Honestly, the art of nailing a conversation isn't a day's learning. You get better at it over time.

We spoke to Manpreet Kaur, PR, and Social media Consultant, Communication facilitator, Josh Talks speaker, and a specialist in communication/public speaking coach and asked her to share a quick guide on how to hold a conversation.

Be A Good Listener

A lot of people think that having a conversation means speaking. However, that’s not true. When you are in a conversation, you must be a good listener. It is only when you both actively listen to each other that you will be able to have a great chat.

Look For A Common Interest

If you are chatting with someone for the first time, try to stick to a topic of common interest like Bollywood or sports. This will help in driving the conversation. Avoid picking sensitive topics like politics, and religion.

Ask Open-ended Questions

It’s always a better idea to ask questions that can’t be answered with just a yes or no. For instance, ask them to share their review of the last movie they watched or about their work culture. This might give them enough opportunity to respond in detail.

Make Them Feel Significant

While you are in a conversation, you must make the other person feel important. Ask them about their interests, and their life. Allow them to speak too.

Don’t Hold Back

A lot of times we hesitate to share things because we fear being judged. We shouldn’t. We should speak our hearts out. No wonder it might help you hold the conversation for even longer.

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Remember And Repeat

If you are meeting someone for the second or third time, you must remember the details from the previous meeting. This way, you will be able to pick up the conversation from there. For example, if the person mentioned that he/she is keen to adopt a pet in the first meeting then you can ask if they have done that or you can be of help. These little things make the other person feel important.

Exchange Compliments

Who doesn’t like compliments? Hence, complimenting the other person will make them feel great. They might want to connect with you again.

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Other Tips -

The expert further shared that one needs to be mindful of body language too while having a conversation since it plays an important role.

• Make eye contact while speaking
• A smiling face is a welcoming gesture
• Crossing your arms is considered a sign that you aren’t interested in the conversation. Hence, keep your arms open.
• Tilt your head during the chat, it gives an impression that you are really into the conversation.
• Fidgeting can bring a lot of awkwardness to the conversation. The other person might also consider you lack self-confidence.