How to Be Interesting to Other People

Being an interesting person has a lot to do with your personal history, your character and how you portray yourself to the world. Even if you don’t think you lead an exciting life, you can still be interesting to others if you learn how to strike up a conversation and find fascinating facts to share.

Instructions

1. Read and become informed about the world around you so you have different topics of conversation to share at parties. If you’re not particularly fond of any particular reading topic, at least keep updated on news and discoveries so you can join ongoing conversations.

2. Find a hobby you enjoy and do it often. Whether it is photography, painting, running or volunteering at local animal shelter, doing something you are passionate about is bound to make you more interesting. If you are shy or don’t know how to approach other people, you can always strike up a conversation about hobbies, a topic neutral and interesting for everybody.

3. Foster friendships. Join groups, participate in group activities or attend lectures. You are more likely to meet like-minded people if you do things you enjoy. You are also more likely to have things to talk about if you are an active member of society than if you spend most of your time at home, without socializing.

4. Avoid talking about yourself all the time. Share information if asked, but also give plenty of time for others to talk. Breathe between sentences, so what you’re saying doesn’t sound like a monologue. Listen attentively when others speak and ask pertinent questions.

5. Don’t talk about your job or your studies unless you are responding to a question. The same applies to complaints about your boss or coworkers. Not only is this boring to outsiders, it can also be interpreted as bad-mannered and rude.

Tips & Warnings

• Uneasiness is quickly perceived by others and can generate an uncomfortable feeling in others. Smile, relax and joke (if the situation warrants it) so others can do the same.