How can I keep a conversation going?

Question

how can I keep a conversation going with random people... I don't know why but some times I just find out my self with no ideas of how to start a conversation or what to talk about, although I feel like I need to talk to those people? can you help me? if you feel like you could give me some real good advice and only answer with a joke or something like that contact me at the like_phantomlord_and_stuff yahoo ID, plaese... thanks a lot

Answer 1

Here's the trick to being a good conversationalist. Ask the basic questions:
-how are you?
-what do you do?
-what are your hobbies?
-have you seen any good movies lately?
-do you have any brothers or sisters?
-ETC

And LISTEN to the responses people give. Ask questions about their responses, and give your own 2-cents worth. ("Oh, you're an accountant." "Were you always good with numbers?" "I loved math in high school but never took more in college." ETC)

People love to be listened to... ask about them, make sure you understand what they are telling you by reflecting their statements back to them. ("It sounds like Wedding Crashers is your favorite movie- who do you think is a better actor- Vince Vaughn or Owen Wilson").

Instead of getting all nervous and staying in your own head- pay attention to the other person, and really listen to what they say. You dont have to respond instantly. And there is no right answer- you can always say "hmmm" or "umm hmmm".