They Look at Things from a New Angle: They take unexpected points of view on familiar subjects.They Have Broad Horizons: They think and talk about, a wide range of issues and experiences beyond their own daily lives.
They Don’t Talk About Themselves All the Time: To hold up your end of the conversation, you obviously have to tell your partner something about yourself and answer questions he or she may ask. However, do not go on too long. Turn the conversation around with ‘How about you?’
They Are Curious: They ask, “Why?” They want to know more about what you are telling them. The best conversationalists have an endless curiosity about everything. They are always eager to learn something new.
They Empathize: They try to put themselves in your place. They aim to relate with what you are saying. The people we most enjoy talking to are those who can relate to what we are feeling.
They Have a Sense of Humor: They do not mind using that humor on themselves. In fact, the best conversationalists frequently make themselves the brunt of their jokes.
They Are Enthusiastic: They communicate a passion for what they are doing with their lives and an interest in you and your life as well. Tommy Lasorda, retired manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, came on my radio show the night after his team suffered a crushing loss to Houston in the National League playoffs in 1981. From his enthusiasm you would have thought his team won. When I asked him how he could be so happy, he said, “The best day of my life is when I manage a winning game. And the second best day of my life is when I manage a losing game.” If you project enthusiasm to people you are talking to, they will be more interested in what you have to say.
