Whatever level the interaction is at, be it business, professional, social or personal, here are 8 simple tips about conversational etiquette when meeting people for the first time.
1. Do not interrupt.
2. Avoid closed questions.
3. Listen more than you talk.
4. Steer clear of one-upmanship.
5. Stay away from religion and politics.
6. Try not to monopolise group conversations.
7. Tailor your words to the other person's personality.
8. Pre-agreed agenda? Prepare your thoughts in advance.
Let me give you an example of number 4. You are in conversation with someone and you say, "I found the recent conference on energy conservation really fascinating." There is nothing quite so irritating as hearing the other person say, "I was the main speaker at two such conferences recently."
If you have any illustrative examples of awkward conversations you would care to share please feel free to do so!
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