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Cafetalk Tutor's Column

Tutor Momo Sensei 's Column

How to Keep a Conversation Going

Nov 25, 2015

This time, i would like to talk about one of the biggest problems you may face when trying to meet new is the awkward silence. This situation is so unconfortable that it can even force you to avoid meeting new people in the first place, but there is a way to get around it. Here are the main three techniques i have used:

Conversation Technique 1# No Filtering

It's kind of reflex that allows you to say whatever goes on in your mind. You don't have to check if you think 'would i sound cool if i say this?' People don't care too much about how 'awesome' what you are saying is,because they are too focused on how THEY are coming across. Just feel free to talk!

Conversation Technique 2# 'Interesting,tell me more!'

This works 99% of the time and it works especially well for beginners. People love to know that you are interested in what they have to say, so if you show some interest, they will hang around and want to talk to you even more!'Hmm, i've never heard of that','Hmm,cool!' expressions are reactionary parts of conversation that prove to the other person that you are really listening, and that's very flattering to them.

Conversation Technique 3# Stories From Everywhere

Everyone knows that stories juice-up conversations,but most people only talk about stories of their own lives. You don't have to draw from your own experience when speaking with someone: you can use stories from anywhere,from stories that happened the people you know,to those you came across via the radio,TV,magazines,etc.

If you do that you will make conversations far more interesting,with natural ease,avoiding all awkward silences that might prevent you from meeting the right friends that you would love to have around. 

To practice more, you may try my conversation lessons and share your own ideas and/or experiences too. I would like to hear how you keep a conversation in a peaceful going.

This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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