What’s the Mark of a Good Conversationalist?

Answer: Follow-up questions.

It is careful listening that makes you better able to respond in conversation.  You can build on what the other person said and be a good talker when it’s your turn.  And best of all, good follow up questions are key to being a good conversationalist.

Great tip: Ask questions that the other person will enjoy answering.

Rerun from Nov 10, 2014

So You Never Know What to Say!

One key to small talk is listening.

Use what the other person is saying as the natural guide.  The person who is talking is always giving ideas and cues about what you might say or ask.

Here’s a rule of thumb from Larry King, the long-standing popular talk show host.  “My first rule of conversation is this: “I never learn a thing while I’m talking.  If I’m going to learn, I’ll have to do it by listening.”

Rerun from 11/03/2014