5 Secrets to Having Great Conversations

The 5 Secrets of  Great Conversation emphasize conversation as being an art. Just as a great artist can avoid boring topics. 

This is perhaps the one to emphasize most. To practice the art of conversation, keep abreast of current events, tune in to your fellow conservationists, and enjoy the experience.

Use these secrets whether you are a parent talking with your children, an adult talking with your spouse, or in a group of people that you are just getting acquainted with. Modify them to meet the occasion. 

Now here are the 5 Secrets of Great Conversation:

1. Avoid Boring Topics

Keep your health complaints for your doctor unless those you are talking to can be of assistance, don't talk about your personal and domestic affairs, and forget about bringing up your in-laws and pets. 

Read the newspapers online if you don’t want to buy the print editions. I buy the print editions only on the weekends. Choose two or three monthly magazines that go in depth on topics you’re interested in. And, keep current in your area of expertise.

2. Don’t Offend

The best manners come from empathy. It's feeling as though you are the other person – – put yourself in his place. They are simply expressions of the decent respect the one human being owes to another and is owed in return. Try to be sensitive to those around you.

3. Don’t Gossip

The Bible says, " Do not bear false witness against thy neighbor." Gossip, by definition, is rumor or talk of a personal, sensational, or intimate nature. 

In other words, don't talk behind your neighbors back. It reflects on your character. Spreading rumors are about as hard to unspread as butter.

4. Include Everyone In

To exclude someone from a conversation is as unthinkable as it would be for a hostess to omit serving one of her guests at dinner. Don't leave anyone out. Reach out to all. Let your eyes communicate cordially with each in turn. 

Be aware of everyone's reaction to what you are saying. Put yourself in the shoes of the other person who is feeling left out.  Make a point of setting him or her at ease.

5. Listening

"Know how to listen, says Plutarch, and you can learn from those who speak badly." Fifty percent of the talking is listening – – not just with your ears, but with all your senses; and, with your heart as well as your mind.  

Close listening for correct information is essential to good conversation, social, or business. The greatest compliment you can pay to anyone is to really listen to what he has to say. And, the way to show you have been listening is to answer responsibly.

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