Improve Your Conversation Skills
Mark Wilkinson
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Many people are apprehensive about making conversation with groups and individuals they don't know well. This can make them feel anxious and frustrated. It could even affect their prospects of promotion at work or interacting in social situations. Follow these simple tips to learn how to speak effec 
tively in public without embarrassment:
Relax consciously by breathing slowly, and then simply concentrate on keeping eye contact with whoever is speaking at the moment. This shows your interest and willingness to participate, which pleases the other person who will feel involved with you, as they know that they have your attention.
When you feel comfortable, aim to join in a group conversation without becoming the centre of attention straightaway. Do this by making a warm and sympathetic comment, without disagreeing with the speaker. Or ask a general question. People will feel you are part of the group and this will help you to relax.
Be willing to admit at some point that you do not know much about a particular topic and ask for more information. This involves you in more contact with the speaker.
Make a more positive contribution to the conversation. Decide to offer a warm compliment: "I think you handled the situation well." A positive contribution helps everyone present to relax and open up.
You're now ready to make a contribution of your own - either one idea, or a short example of how something similar happened to you. Keep it brief at this stage, and uncontroversial. A clearly expressed and relevant idea will always be welcomed. Maintain eye contact as you say it. But don't make any attempt to take the idea any further at this stage. Just enjoy the feeling of success.
Relax consciously by breathing slowly, and then simply concentrate on keeping eye contact with whoever is speaking at the moment. This shows your interest and willingness to participate, which pleases the other person who will feel involved with you, as they know that they have your attention.
When you feel comfortable, aim to join in a group conversation without becoming the centre of attention straightaway. Do this by making a warm and sympathetic comment, without disagreeing with the speaker. Or ask a general question. People will feel you are part of the group and this will help you to relax.
Be willing to admit at some point that you do not know much about a particular topic and ask for more information. This involves you in more contact with the speaker.
Make a more positive contribution to the conversation. Decide to offer a warm compliment: "I think you handled the situation well." A positive contribution helps everyone present to relax and open up.
You're now ready to make a contribution of your own - either one idea, or a short example of how something similar happened to you. Keep it brief at this stage, and uncontroversial. A clearly expressed and relevant idea will always be welcomed. Maintain eye contact as you say it. But don't make any attempt to take the idea any further at this stage. Just enjoy the feeling of success.