Brush up on your conversation skills with these tips from Toastmasters.
- Ask specific but open-ended questions
Try starting with “Tell me about…” to avoid asking questions that may be uncomfortable to answer - Try the Comment, Ask, Affirm, Add (CAAA) approach
This is four-step process to help you initiate conversation and not simply ask questions - Listen actively and pay attention to body language
Nod, use open body language, smile, and make eye contact - Consider cultural differences
Small talk differs across cultures - Avoid awkward topics
Politics, personal health, and inappropriate jokes are just a few - Construct a “conversation resume”
Have interesting responses at the ready - Practice in Toastmasters!
Make plans to join us at our next meeting
Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik