Comments on: How to Make Polite Conversation at a Cocktail Party

on 8/8/2006 One thing I've learned about talking to others is not to ask too many questions, just talk. It's cool to ask some questions, but if you do it too much, they'll think that you don't have anything to talk about.

on 2/23/2006 You do not always have to start a conversation. If you see a few people talking, just go over, and stand there for a few moments, listening, smiling, and looking friendly. If they are talking about things you are familiar with, or have an interest in, just join in. You never need a script, you never have to know what to say, just say what you feel and think. Sometimes, you can even change the way the conversation is going by a few words. For instance, if they are talking about a particular new movie, and you have not seen it, just listen, and when the other party stops talking, just add, "I have seen her in another movie, did you see it?" and suddenly you will be in the conversation. If they are talking about politics, well, that's easy to give your own opinion.

The main thing about being a good conversationalist is, for you to be well read, well informed, and interested in a lot of things. Read newspapers, listen to the news on TV, know what is going on in the world, read movie reviews, as well as TV reviews, be well rounded and you will never have to know how to make conversation. It will just come naturally. Never memorize 'how to converse' just be yourself, be informed, have a nice smile, and a good firm handshake and you will have it made.

on 1/5/2006 You will feel more comfortable meeting people if you know that the conversation can be a brief one. Have a plan for gracefully disengaging from the encounter.

on 11/22/2005 Be careful not to trap people in a conversation. You are supposed to be circulating and meeting many new people. 3 to 5 minutes and you should be on your way to entertain another guest. Don't corner your guests for an eternity.

on 11/22/2005 One thing I've learned about talking to others is not to ask too many questions, just talk. It's cool to ask some questions, but if you do it too much, they'll think that you don't have anything to talk about.

on 11/22/2005 Instead of focusing on "making conversation" think about what you truly wonder about the different characters who will be there. That way, it is less about a script but comes from the heart. You could ask about their work and where they live to get an idea about their daily life, but at this sort of occasion it is best not to discuss work or their personal life in too much detail as they probably don't want to have to think about that too much when they are "letting their hair down". Bring the conversation back to the room with comments about the actual event.

on 11/22/2005 When someone asks you questions in a conversation try to elaborate. For example if you were asked "do you like Pearl Jam?" don't answer with a quick yes or no, elaborate - say "yes i do. i especially like the lead singer hes...."

on 11/22/2005 Always make direct eye contact and give a firm handshake, but not too much and certainly not like a wet noodle either.

on 11/22/2005 Focus on the person you are talking to and listen carefully. Then you will be able to ask a question to keep the conversation going. Don't look away while they are talking or they will think you are not really interested.

on 11/22/2005 When striking up conversation, ask open questions. These questions begin with a "W," such as "Who, What, Where, When and Why." This type of question requires more than a yes or no answer. For example, "What is it you like best about living here?"