We’ve all been there.
Youre grasping for straws and wish the ground would open up and swallow you whole.
If keeping a conversation going is a struggle for you, weve got you covered.
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We asked a communication expert for strategies to help you level up your conversation game and overcome any roadblocks.
At a Glance
Long pauses and awkward eye contact?
Yep, we’ve all been there.
Some people are great conversationalists, but, TBH, some of us could use some improvement.
A little practice goes a long way.
You’ve got this!
It serves a number of important purposes, including helping people bond and improving overall communication.
Tell a Fun Story
People love a good story!
Share an interesting anecdote or experience that relates to the conversation.
This can not only be entertaining but also open doors for the other person to share something similar.
It can be helpful to keep a few anecdotes in your back pocket in case you need them.
Open-ended questions encourage the other person to contribute to the conversation.
Learning more about their perspective also helps you find new ways to keep the conversation going.
Give a Compliment
Give the person youre talking to a compliment.
Be Yourself
People are drawn to genuine enthusiasm.
Be yourself during the conversation, letting your personality shine through.
It also helps the other person feel more comfortable and ensures that the conversation stays authentic and genuine.
Keep It Positive
Help!
The Conversation’s Dying!
It involves being fully present in the conversation and showing interest in what the other person has to say.
Look Interested
Don’t just wait for your turn to talk.
Respond Appropriately
Respond to what the person is saying with more than just Uh-uh, or Wow!
Show your interest by elaborating on your responses.
Add details, opinions, or even a touch of humor to keep things engaging.
Build on What the Person Says
Pay attention to what the other person is saying.
Use this as a springboard to ask follow-up questions or share a related story or experience of your own.
Redundancies arent fun or interesting for speakers or listeners.
Solutions for Overcoming Conversation Roadblocks
A conversation roadblock is like hitting a sudden red light.
It’s that moment when we’re talking, everything seems to be going well, and then bam!
We find ourselves stuck, not knowing what to say next.
Dont worry, you’re not alone if youve experienced this!
“And even the best communicators cant control how their conversation partners will behave.”
Do you need some quick ice-breakers or small-talk starters?
This not only encourages them to share but also makes them feel like they are contributing something helpful.
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