Try these tips for getting through your next awkward conversation.
Understanding Awkward Conversations
Manage the situation by understanding the cause of your unease.
Perhaps there are lots of long silences or maybe the other person has a strong opinion different than yours.
Cultura RM Exclusive / Getty Images
Identify the reason for the awkwardness, and you will be one step closer to finding a solution.
Keep Awkward Conversations Flowing
There is a reason why long silences can make you feel uncomfortable.
A good conversation is more about making music together than finding the perfect thing to say.
Keeping the mood light will help to break the ice and move the conversation forward.
Overcome Awkwardness With Compromise
Sometimes conversations are awkward because of disagreements.
In these situations, always give a shot to find a compromise.
Doing so may allow you to accept the other person’s viewpoint without having to change your own.
Often people simply want to know that their feelings are acknowledged rather than be offered solutions to their problems.
Doing so also relieves you of the pressure of trying to think of what to say next.
In these situations, it’s best toask questionsto try and find mutual interests that can turn into conversations.
Don’t struggle too hard with these either.
At a Loss for Words?
Something simple like, “So, what’s keeping you busy these days?”
Change the Topic in Awkward Conversations
New discussion topics are perfect for lulls in conversation.
Be sure that the topic you introduce is something that will appeal to your conversation partners.
New topics are also perfect forsmall talkwith strangers.
Even mundane things such as the weather can be good places to start.
Take control by saying something assertive, such as “I would rather not discuss that.”
Keep Quiet
Not all situations call for conversation.
Steer the conversation in a different direction by saying something like, “Oh that’s interesting.
You know what else I heard the other day?”
and continue talking about the less-sensitive topic.
Other ways to handle awkward topics are to remain silent or be upfront that you are feeling uncomfortable.
Could we talk about something else?"
Awkward topics can sometimes even be what is left unsaid.
Say something like, “I am so sorry for your loss.
You must be having a hard time right now.”
Let that them know you have something important to discuss and set a time to do so.
Always thank the other person for taking the time to talk.
Be Understanding
Not everyone is a social butterfly who loves making conversation.
If someone feels nervous around you because she doesn’t know you, be kind and understanding.
The awkwardness may have nothing to do with you.
Don’t judge someone who appears awkward, nervous, or afraid.
You owe it to yourself and your future conversation partners to manage your feelings.
Explain Awkward Endings
Sometimes conversations get cut short.
Explain why you had to leave and how it was not personal.
Help Solve Problems
Help someone solve a problem and the awkwardness between you will easily dissolve.
Asking a friend for advice is another great way to keep conversations interesting and flowing.
End With a Summary
It’s important to end conversations with a summary and a future plan.
Perhaps next time we are together we can plan for when I start training myself."
Frequently Asked Questions
Awkward conversations happen to everyone once in a while.
Each of these awkward situations is different, so how you cope with each one can vary.
There are a number of techniques that can help you carry on during an awkward conversation.
Making a humorous comment can help lighten the mood while exploring some different small-talk conversation starters can also help.
Talking about the weather or asking where a person is from are some good examples.
Psych Central.9 steps to better communication today
Psychology Today.A menu of options for making small talk.
Social Anxiety Institute.What is social anxiety?
Teens Health.5 ways to shake shyness.
