How to Practice Proper Conversation Etiquette

Having a conversation with someone can be a wonderful thing. The best conversations are ones that end up being a two way street, with both parties equally interested in hearing one another's thoughts and sharing their own. Good conversationalists are never alone at a party. There are certain ways to practice proper etiquette during a conversation that will help ensure that you enjoy it just as much as the person that you're conversing with.

Instructions

1. Avoid interrupting the person that you're conversing with. Interruptions are a widespread pet peeve among conversationalists everywhere. Before you speak, make sure that the person is completely finished with what he's saying.

2. Help to push the conversation forward by asking questions. It will help you to give the impression like you're listening to what the other person is saying and that you're actually interested.

3. Turn your phone off before engaging in a conversation with someone. Even if you can't turn it off, avoid answering the phone during a conversation unless it's an emergency. The person that you're conversing with could feel low on your list of priorities. It could hurt someone's feelings, and it is just plain rude! Once the conversation is over, excuse yourself and then take the phone call.

4. Look the person in the eye. If you're glancing all over the room while someone is trying to speak with you, he could feel like you're not listening to a word that he's saying. Even if you're uninterested in what he's saying, be cordial until you can excuse yourself.

5. Steer clear of constantly talking about yourself. A conversation is one that involves two people. If you're talking about yourself excessively, you don't leave room for the other person to talk about himself or his opinions. Also, the other person could think you're arrogant and uninterested in what anyone else has to say.

6. Talk at a proper tone. Speak loud enough so the person you're conversing with can hear you, but speak low enough so that you're not loud and yelling. The other person shouldn't have to strain to hear you or worry that private matters will be overheard by people around you.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn what topics to leave out of conversation and when. For example, consider leaving conversations about personal matters for when you're in a private location. Truly personal conversations should be reserved for when you really know someone well.