2 of 29

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

Continue to smile and make eye contact. Lean toward the person you are engaging and nod periodically to display interest and involvement. Take note of your companion's body language to measure the success of the conversation. Not everyone you encounter will be interested in talking; do not take this as a personal rejection. They could be preoccupied with a personal problem, or in a rush to get to an appointment. One of the things which keeps us locked in our isolated life is a fear of rejection. Each time you take the initiative to be friendly, the fear of being rejected will be less intimidating. With practice, you will soon be approaching others with ease.

* Listen. After a few brief questions, your companion should carry the bulk of the conversation. You won't get to know someone while talking about yourself. Empathize, sympathize when appropriate, do not criticize. Ask questions, but don't get too personal. Be discreet in imparting information about yourself. Confine the conversation to your companion's interests and attempt to discover common interests you might share. Listening is sometimes the best conversation tool.

Even if you succeed in having a good conversation, there is no guarantee this new acquaintance will become a friend. Friendship requires a certain amount of chemistry and commonality. Your goal is to have a friendly exchange, and whether that eventually develops into opportunities for future conversations and ultimate friendship will be determined by time and circumstance.

In the meantime, you are practicing your verbal communication skills, opening yourself up to new experiences with others, and before you know it, you will find yourself with a list of friends with whom you can communicate on many levels.

"You meet people who forget you. You meet people you forget. Sometimes you meet people you cannot forget. Those are your friends. (Anonymous)

Source:

"How to Start a Conversation and Make Friends" by Don Gabor

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to start a conversation and make friends?
We want to hear your view. Write now!