How To Change the Subject

  • November 10, 2009
  • 4,219 Views
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Caught in a sticky situation? Practice these skills and get ready to cope.

You Will Need

  • Listening skills
  • Quick thinking
  • Tact
  • Politeness (optional)
How To Change the Subject: Shift the subject

Step 1: Shift the subject

Shift the subject by listening for words in a conversation that can lead you to a memorable or funny situation off the current topic.

How To Change the Subject: Distract the speaker

Step 2: Distract the speaker

Distract the speaker by asking if they or anyone listening to the conversation needs a drink or a snack.

Be polite by saying, “Excuse me,” first.

How To Change the Subject: Ask a question

Step 3: Ask a question

Ask a question that is designed to change the focus of the conversation.

How To Change the Subject: Give a compliment

Step 4: Give a compliment

Give a compliment to the speaker about their appearance, weight, outfit, or overall look.

How To Change the Subject: Mention changing the subject

Step 5: Mention changing the subject

Mention bluntly that you are going to change the subject. Use a smile to keep it from being more uncomfortable than it may already be and talk about something positive.

Did you know? More than four in 10 teenagers polled say things over instant message that they wouldn’t say in person.

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