Teachings,+conversation

Conversation
(Kai Stormwalker)

At both formal and informal gatherings a good guest will make an effort to consider topics in advance. Talk to as many people as you can and beware spending too much time with one person. You might not like someone present but you must be civilized and demonstrate respect for your host by treating all their guests alike.

Conversation must be of the kind that everyone can join in. A good guest will plan and prepare for the conversation with both friends and strangers. No politics, controversy, shoptalk or personal/private talk. No swearing or anger. Laughter must be explained. If you find yourself in a laughter inducing conversation you must politely explain to the rest of the company what the ‘joke’ is.

Conversation is a skill and art that can be developed. It requires constant preparation. Prepare by keeping up to date with local, national, and international events. Find out who else will be at the event/gathering. Without being too intrusive try to learn a little bit about them. Good conversations do not just happen and those who make it look easy have learned the secrets that follow here.

- Smile, be confident and introduce yourself. Don’t wait to be introduced. - If you have forgotten someone’s name apologize and say so; don’t make a big deal about it. - Find some safe ground for the start of the conversation. The event, the host/ess connection and the location are usually good places to start until you know people a little better. - Avoid gossip at all times. - Do not interrupt or allow yourself to be interrupted. - Maintain eye contact when talking to people. - Learn and use other people’s names but beware of overusing the name. - Watch the volume, speed, and tone of your voice. - Speak clearly so you will be understood. - It is essential that you keep your temper and emotions under control and your demeanor calm. - Be cautious about using ‘throw away lines’ or inappropriate humor. These are far too often misunderstood even when the meaning is clear to you. - If the conversation goes somewhere you don’t want to be, then don’t join in.