Seven mistakes you make in casual conversations
Assuming that nobody wants to talk to you
Most people have degrees of social awkwardness and discomfort. Try to get out of yourself and realize that most people are equally worried about their social performance. Try and learn something about the other person and make a connection.
Interrupting or intruding upon an existing conversation
No one likes to be interrupted. Wait for a lull in the conversation before trying to be included.
Start talking without having something to say.
People like to talk about themselves. Enter any conversation with a clear question or thought to convey to the other person, preferably about them. It’s all about creating a comfortable opportunity for the other person to respond.
Broaching conversational topics.
It’s generally best not to talk about polarizing or controversial topics, like abortion, politics, or religion. Wait until you feel the environment is quiet and calm to bring up controversial topics.
Being hard to follow.
Keep a conversation going by making yourself easy to understand.
Talking too much about yourself—or about the other person.
People generally love to talk about themselves but some people may begin to feel interrogated. If you sense their discomfort, move the conversation to something in your immediate environment.
Wasting someone’s time.
Be aware of your non-verbal body cues. Stay off your phone, give eye contact and give the person your full attention.
