How to be a Great Conversationalist

Talk to a man about himself and he will listen for hours.

Benjamin Disraeli

Sometimes when someone says they have had a great conversation with you, it means you have allowed or encouraged them to talk about one of their passions (or concerns). For example, suppose you met someone at a party and the subject of photography (or the economic stimulus plan or global warming, etc.) came up. You may sense that they are holding back their thoughts or feelings on the subject. Perhaps they are making the general (and sometimes correct) assumption that you would not be interested in talking about cameras costing over $1000, and they wish to be polite and not bore you. But if you happen to know a little about the subject, you can actually actively encourage the other person to share their knowledge and passion. If you respond by saying, "Oh, yes, the latest digital SLR cameras are getting better and better, aren't they?" you are actually letting the other person know that it is ok to get more in depth on the subject with you. If they do not take the bait, that is fine too. But if you eventually manage to get them to show you their most favorite pictures and talk about all the photographic equipment they have ever owned, then you have definitely succeeded in being a great conversationalist!