How to Never Run Out of Things to Say in Conversations

Introduction

• Awkward silences in conversation can be uncomfortable.
• Here are 5 tips to ensure you always have something to say.

Tip 1: "Reminds Me of" Technique

• Use your surroundings: When your mind goes blank, look around and say "That reminds me of..." to open new conversational threads.
• Follow-up stories: Relate your stories to others but avoid making it competitive to foster connections.

Tip 2: Ask Open-ended Questions

• Example: Instead of "Do you like Toronto?", ask "How do you like Toronto?"
  • Encourages detailed responses and opens more threads.
• Why questions: Similar to how children ask, delve deeper by understanding motivations (e.g., "Why did you decide to get into consulting?").

Tip 3: Use Revival Questions

• Non-sequiturs: Revive stalled conversations.
  • Group setting: "How do you guys all know one another?"
  • One-on-one: "So what's your story?"
• Future plans: For those you know well, ask about their exciting plans.

Tip 4: Complimentary Cold Read

• Make observations: Comment on something you notice (e.g., "You look like you're into fitness.").
  • Right or wrong: It opens up the conversation regardless of accuracy.

Tip 5: Flip the Script

• Comfort with silence: Allow silence to prompt the other person to speak.
• Mirroring: Repeat their last words to encourage elaboration.

Conclusion

• Using these tips can improve your conversation skills.
• For more in-depth learning, consider enrolling in "Charisma University."
• Subscribe for more tips and videos on communication skills.

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These notes offer strategies to enhance conversational engagement and avoid awkward pauses.