How To Talk To Anyone

  • October 8, 2009
  • 42,822 Views
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Anyone can become a smooth talker; it just takes a little practice.

You Will Need

  • The latest news
  • A charming smile
  • An opening question
  • Good listening skills
How To Talk To Anyone: Be well-informed

Step 1: Be well-informed

Begin every day with a quick review of the news so you’re never stuck for a conversation starter.

How To Talk To Anyone: Find an opener

Step 2: Find an opener

If you prefer a more personal approach, quickly scan a person’s outfit for something you can use to initiate a conversation.

How To Talk To Anyone: Start with a smile

Step 3: Start with a smile

Before you say a word, give them a special smile: Make eye contact with the person, wait a second, and then slowly let a smile spread across your face. Research shows this little trick immediately charms people.

Make your opening line a question that can’t be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”

How To Talk To Anyone: Really listen

Step 4: Really listen

Listen for casual asides; people often make references to topics they love. Prove you’re really listening by remarking on something they just said.

Make sure to say “you” more than “I” during the chat.

How To Talk To Anyone: Don't seem overeager

Step 5: Don't seem overeager

Resist the urge to yelp “Me, too!” or agree with everything the person says. It will make you seem needy and insincere.

How To Talk To Anyone: Do some talking

Step 6: Do some talking

Don’t turn the encounter into an interrogation. Though you want to encourage the other person to talk about themselves, you need to contribute to the dialogue, too.

Steer clear of topics you’re overly passionate about; you run the risk of monopolizing the conversation or lecturing.

How To Talk To Anyone: Don't overstay your welcome

Step 7: Don't overstay your welcome

If you realize the other person isn’t saying much, tell them you’ve enjoyed talking to them and move on.

According to a Stanford study, the most successful business-school graduates were the ones comfortable having conversations with strangers, not the ones with the best grades.

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Comments (2)

FunniBaby

Love the video even if I am the most social person alive.

over 2 years ago by FunniBaby

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cherylxyar

I like it.Thank you all.

about 1 year ago by cherylxyar

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