Conversational advise?

Question

My problem is that i cannot seem to carry on a good conversation when i am on the phone with some of my friends,
when i talk to people in person i can carry a conversation, and make even shy people engage in the conversation,
but when everyone doesnt get to see me they call me and i have found that i have nothing to say, and i just need them to be impressed for a while,

i need good conversation topics, something that interests boys or girls not neccesarily both, or hints for holding a conversation.

also, what could i do to make people talk to me rather than their videogame, or focus on the conversation rather than something else?

Answer 1

I used to have trouble holding a conversation too, a long time ago. I bought a paperback book and cassette from a bookstore and haven't had trouble since. It's been so long ago, it's just natural to me now. My suggestion is to purchase and read a book about it and practice!

As far as getting people to focus on you rather than something else, there could be a few different factors at work here. The people you are trying to talk to are possibly just being rude or trying to avoid conversation with you; the timing of the conversation or the conditions are not favorable or conducive to effective verbal communication; or, you are simply not commanding their attention for whatever reason. Or, it could be something unobvious (to you) such as as chronic halitosis.

It's pointless to try to have a conversation with someone until you have their attention and ideally, eye contact. One of the most effective ways to get someone's attention is to raise their curiosity about something of interest to the individual. It could be anything...sports, favorite flavor of coffee, favorite t.v. show-anything of interest to the listener! Or, you could simply complement the person about something. Assertiveness also helps a lot. Also, people are generally more attracted to someone with a postive attitude and tone. It's more pleasant.

Good luck and make it a point to practice!

Answer 2

well u can start out by asking a question like "what r ya doin?" or bring up something that happened at school or at work. if u wanna keep them focused bring up something interesting. another thing u can do is talk about a favorite t.v show and talk about the funny things or the scary things. it also can be that ur not the type of person that likes being on the phone...think about it.. hope this helps
atleast just a bit ^.^

Answer 3

If you focus on how well you are LISTENING to your friends you will find yourself much better at conversation.

Let your friends know you are listening by the clarification questions you ask and comments you make. Try to understand how they are feeling about what they are saying and why it is important to them.

Worry less about what you can talk about and more about what people are saying to you and why. Before you know it you'll find yourself engaged in the conversation and interested in what both of you are saying.

Answer 4

A conversation could roll on depends on the topic you are talking about. If it is just a yes no questions, then must be short. What do you want to talk about with friends on phone?