In this engaging discussion, Don Gabor, an author with decades of experience in teaching communication skills, shares insights on how to initiate and maintain conversations. He tackles common hurdles people face, such as social anxiety and the fear of rejection. Don reveals the SOFTEN method for improving approachability through positive body language. Listeners will learn effective icebreaker techniques, strategies for remembering names, and how to gracefully end conversations, all aimed at making meaningful connections.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Breaking the Ice
Start conversations by focusing on your surroundings.
Comment or ask a question about something you both can relate to.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Approachability Cues
To be approachable, send signals like eye contact and a friendly smile.
Avoid crossed arms, as they signal disinterest.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Handling Rejection
If rejected, don't take it personally; the other person might be fearful, not hear you, or be preoccupied.
Try again later; persistence can sometimes overcome initial reluctance.
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This book provides readers with effective techniques to initiate and maintain conversations, both in person and online. It covers essential skills such as using body language effectively, asking the right questions, and turning online interactions into face-to-face relationships. The revised edition includes guidance on navigating digital communication and social networking.
Whether sitting next to someone on the subway, mingling at a wedding, or chatting around the water cooler, chances to make conversation and new friends abound in our lives. But how do you meet and talk to people without being awkward about it?
My guest today has spent over three decades teaching people from all walks of life how to make small talk and socialize. His name is Don Gabor, and he's the author of several books, including the one we're talking about today, How to Start a Conversation and Make Friends.
We begin our conversation discussing where Don sees people have the most problems with starting and sustaining conversations, as well as whether these issues have or haven't changed over the last thirty years. Don then walks us through how you can make yourself more approachable for small talk, why body language is so key in this area, and the best way to give a handshake. We then discuss how to break the ice with someone you've just made contact with, how to handle rejection, and how to remember people's names after you meet them. Don then shares how to keep the conversation going by offering up and homing in on certain keywords. We end our conversation, with how to end a conversation.
The Art of Manliness 