Be clear about your purpose when conversing. For example, are you trying to persuade someone or just to have a fun time talking?

If your purpose is unclear - if you're really trying to sell someone while pretending to make social conversation - you might create an awkward situation. Be clear, not confusing or deceptive.

Be on the lookout for bits of information that are useful, funny, or uplifting. When you share them with friends and co-workers, they'll see you as a more interesting person, as one who often has something of value to share because you regularly offer them a `free prize inside`.

Masterful conversation requires flexibility and the willingness to stay open to new information we haven't yet learned. (You may have noticed that certain people become uneasy if they don't know everything, and they become defensive. It's better to be humble and willing to learn. When you don't know everything, no need to be resistant. You can tactfully inquire and find out. Be a learner, not a smarty-pants.

Loren Ekroth ©2009, all rights reserved

Loren Ekroth, Ph.D. is a specialist in human communication and a national expert on conversation for business and social life.