Did you forget how to talk? Check this basic rule!
During social gatherings, we often engage in conversations with several people at once. However, effective communication with each of them can be difficult when someone interrupts us mid-sentence. Therefore, it is worth remembering a few rules that will help maintain the order of spoken words and make our conversation more efficient.
Hold on a moment
When someone interrupts us while speaking, it often annoys us and makes it difficult to continue our thought. However, it is worth holding on for a moment and allowing the interlocutor to finish their statement. If the person still hasn’t stopped talking after a few seconds of silence, we can gently signal that we would like to return to our sentence.
Listen carefully
Not interrupting the speaker is one side of the coin. The other side is to listen carefully to the other person. When someone starts to express their opinion, it is worth concentrating on their words and phrases to understand their point of view. This way, we will gain more time and be less likely to interrupt because we will have a better understanding of what the speaker wants to convey.
Give space
During a conversation, it is essential to give the interlocutor space and allow them to express their thoughts. We can ask a question and wait for an answer before starting to talk about our opinion. This way, we will create an atmosphere of full engagement and openness for both sides, which will allow for better exchange of ideas.
Establish eye contact
When we are having a conversation with one or more people, it is good to establish eye contact with the speaker who is currently talking. This way, everyone will know who has the floor and who is waiting for their turn. We will then have order during the conversation, and the value of the exchange of ideas will increase because we will be sure that everyone is listening to what the other person is saying.
In summary, during a conversation, it is worth remembering to hold on for a moment, listen carefully, give space to the interlocutor, and establish eye contact. Thanks to these rules, our conversation will become more effective and efficient.