The Art of Conversation!

Is there really an art to talking?

If so then that means there would have to be an art to listening...

WHY DO I NEED TO LEARN HOW TO TALK OR LISTEN?

I DO BOTH JUST FINE, I KNOW A FEW PEOPLE THAT NEED TO SHUT UP...

IF YOU THOUGHT THAT ABOVE STATEMENT OR ANYTHING REMOTELY CLOSE IN MEANING...

You're THE PROBLEM!

The art of conversation starts with listening. Commonly, called aggressive listening. Aggressive listening is letting the other party know your listening by saying agreeable phrases i.e wow, really? yea? I was wondering about that...

You become the conductor of the conversation by making phrases that encourage the talker. Now, they are drawn to you, Why? because everyone loves talking and especially with someone who seems engaged! 

Don't be a fake or phony about it though. If you aren't interested then simply excuse yourself.

Well, it's a family thing or a work formal event and I have to listen to these people what do I do then? 

Find out why they are into it? 

Be open and say, " I never got into that what made you get into it? "

Now, they are really excited even so more now because they feel they now have a chance of "popping your cherry" or introducing you to their interest.

Next thing is easier said than done; don't interrupt!

No matter how long winded or repetitive they are or distracted just let them finish. LET THEM FINISH!

Then, you continue the conversation. 

Only one exception to this rule. If you are dealing a "string along" speaker."

A string along person will use a story to tell a story and in that story use an example to be explained by the story... they never hush or leave room for space...

They don't mind being interrupted and crazy to believe but if you don't they feel like you are shy or couldn't keep up with the conversation.

LISTEN TO UNDERSTAND.

Try to put yourself into the talker's side and really form to understand versus giving advice!

Responsive listening

Responsive listening is taking aggressive listening a step further. It's where now you give more of an explanation of why you agree with the said talker's point.

EYE CONTACT

WHEN LISTENING KEEP MORE FACE CONTACT. EYE CONTACT OVER 3 SECONDS MAKES DISCOMFORT. 

The art of Talking!

Ever heard the less you say the smarter you look?

It's true for everything! 

Speak when spoken to and only answer the question.

This gives you a rep for being clear and concise. Easy to understand or the great guy.

When you talk it's a question instead...

Example: Instead, of saying, "I think the Cowboys suck." 

Ask, " Do you think the Cowboys are good?"

By asking questions it gets everyone involved,

Alright. 

EYE CONTACT

IN THIS CASE, IF IT'S ONE ON ONE OR A GROUP GLANCES WORK BEST. 

IT GIVES YOU CHECKS ON WHO IS LISTENING AND MAKES THE PERSON FEEL COMFORTABLE AND INVOLVED.