How to improve small talk?

annice22 · #1 06-09-2003, 12:44 PM

Hi I need some advice with trying to improve my small talk with people because I feel like I don't have that much to talk about with people. I know that I'm shy and that probably plays a big part with it.

Has anyone else ever had this problem.

annice

Kevin · #2 06-09-2003, 12:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by annice22
Hi I need some advice with trying to improve my small talk with people because I feel like I don't have that much to talk about with people. I know that I'm shy and that probably plays a big part with it.

Has anyone else ever had this problem.

annice

People always like to talk about themselves. So just talk about something the other person did or is doing -- or just something about them. Relate it to your own experience if you can, ask questions. People will usually feel liked and like you as well if you talk about them.

Peaches-n-Cream · #3 06-09-2003, 02:35 PM

ktsnake is right. I was like you, too, annice. I was shy and didn't have much to say. I decided to talk to people about their interests. I would listen to what they said and ask questions about what was going on in there lives. It was funny. I would talk maybe 10% of the time and people would say that we had the best conversation.

It built up my confidence. If you feel that you lack good conversational skills, you just need to practice. Read newspapers, magazines, and books to be informed and have topics to discuss. With some practice, you can become a great conversationalist.

justamom · #4 06-09-2003, 03:01 PM

Cream-Read newspapers, magazines, and books to be informed and have topics to discuss. With some practice, you can become a great conversationalist.
Excellent advice!

My Hubby is a walking example of scientific trivia! He reads constantly. I swear, he can spout of the most intresting facts on any subject. He isn't a "big talker" by any means...I'm the one with the B.S. yet, there isn't a person he couldn't have something to say to.

ktsnake is right, people do love to talk about themselves. Their voice is music to the own ears!

Dionysus · #5 06-09-2003, 03:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cream
Read newspapers, magazines, and books to be informed and have topics to discuss.

And these message boards!

You'll have a great bank of topics.

annice22 · #6 06-10-2003, 02:56 PM

Thanks for the really good advice.

I've had some pretty good conversations today.

annice