Project Management

Mastering the Art of Conversation

Bob Weinstein is a journalist who covers technology, project management, the workplace and career development.

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No one questions the importance of building excellent people skills--it’s impossible to achieve success in any field without them. The key that opens the door to smooth, effective and effortless interpersonal skills is conversation, which takes every shape and form. Conversations are part and parcel of everyday living, but there is a lot more to them--and we seldom consider their role as social, learning and communication tools. Whether we’re making friends or trying to forge relationships in business or government, conversation is the vehicle opening the communication doors to information sharing.
 
Starting conversations is difficult
Starting conversations with people we know is easy, but starting conversations with strangers or with people we hardly know can be difficult and awkward. But mastering that skill is absolutely essential for communicating easily and effectively, and for achieving success in any field.
 
You’ve probably envied the person who can just walk up to a stranger on the other side of the room and strike up a conversation. That’s a Herculean feat for many of us. Here, we’re going to show you how to do it. Initially, it’s not going to be easy--but with practice and patience, you’ll excel.
 
Conversation defined
Lee E. Miller, a Morristown, N.J.-based executive coach and trainer, says, “…

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