Tutorial: How to be a Good Conversationalist

Do you realize that we spend a great part of our waking hours talking? When we are alone and do not feel like reading, we go around looking for someone to talk with.

To be a good conversationalist is not easy. Some people have much to say when they are with members of their family, but they become tongue-tied and uneasy when they are with strangers or people they know only slightly. 

Conversation can be a source of much fun. Everyone likes to listen to jokes. We all enjoy listening to adventure stories and interesting experiences. We develop our communication skills in talking and speaking with other people.

Here are some tips to make conversation interesting and fruitful: 

1.   Be a good listener.

-  There is give and take. I talk and you listen. Now it is your turn to talk and I will listen. A good listener shows interest on his/ her face and provides good feedback.

2.   Be friendly and amiable.

-  Look cheerful and good-natures. Nothing will drive people away from you sooner that a sour look or an unfriendly expression.

3.   Broaden your interests.

-  Have something interesting to contribute to the conversation. Read books and magazines. Listen to older people, they generally have something interesting to say and learning’s from it. 

4.   Be honest.

- Be yourself. If a subject about which you know nothing is introduced, admit your ignorance. Learn from your mistakes and change it.

5.   Do not be afraid to ask questions.

-  Avoid useless or rude interruptions. Make use of purposeful questions.

These are just a tips or hints to be a good conversationalist. Always remember that we should speak right and begins effort to control our speech because words are powerful, it can inspire but they can also crush. Make sure that your words can encourage someone and communicate effectively.

Source:  
Photos: Google images

Information: English Communication Art Skills, page 263.