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How to Avoid Awkward Pauses in Conversation: Speak Easily and Not Just About the Weather
05.04.2024 08:36
Everyone is familiar with the situation when close people meet and suddenly there is an awkward pause in the conversation, which is filled with coughing or the topic is changed to the weather.
The worst thing is when such a pause occurs during important negotiations, on a first date, or in any other situation when it is so important to make a lasting impression.
Here are some tips to help you take control of the situation and avoid unpleasant moments.
First advice
Be personally interested in your interlocutor, tune in to positive communication and smile, as a famous character from a Soviet cartoon said when going to the pond.
Second advice
Instead of singing "It's already spring in Paris" like Kisa Vorobyaninov, switch to memories. Tell about a similar or funny incident or story that happened in the same situation.
Third piece of advice
Ask your interlocutor about something, but only in such a way as to receive a detailed answer, and not a simple (yes/no). The question should arise from the context of the conversation, the topic of the meeting, etc.
Fourth advice
If things are bad and you just feel like discussing the weather forecast, it’s better to start talking about art, sports, hobbies, or other general topics.
Fifth advice
Very convenient: if the interlocutor has finished his story, and you are not ready to continue the topic, cling to the topic under discussion and ask a clarifying question “Why?”, “For what purpose?”, “How?”, based on the context.
And the last thing
An interesting effect occurs if you and your interlocutor switch places. That is, if he asked questions, then you start asking and vice versa.
Or ask again, repeating the last words of the other person or an interesting moment that can help him develop and continue his story.
Earlier we talked about how to communicate with a person who doesn’t like you .
