How to have deeper conversations
The art of communication requires constant practice and is not easy for everyone. Sometimes it can be difficult to start a conversation, especially if you are naturally shy or don't have much in common with the other person. In fact, learning how to conduct a conversation is not as difficult as you might think, but it takes constant practice. Whether you're at a dinner party, at school, or on the phone, an interesting conversation starts with two or more people having an easy time communicating with each other.
Take an active part in the conversation. Ask thoughtful questions. It only takes two for a good conversation. For your part, do your best to make the conversation interesting. To do this, you can ask questions that will keep your conversation at ease. Ask questions that cannot be answered in monosyllables. Instead of saying "Today is a wonderful day, isn't it?" Ask "How are you planning to spend this wonderful day?" To the first question, the person can answer "yes" or "no", which may mean that the conversation is at an impasse. Ask questions that your interlocutor cannot answer in monosyllables.
Learn to be an active listener. Being an active listener means taking an active part in the conversation, answering the questions of the interlocutor and asking him yours. You can show that you are an active listener with gestures and words. If your interlocutor sees that you are listening carefully, he will feel that he is appreciated and respected, and this, in turn, is very important if you want to build an interesting conversation.
Show the other person you are interested in their words by using gestures and body language. Maintain eye contact while talking. Also, nod your head when appropriate. In addition, you can use expressions that show you are interested in the conversation. You can just say, "How interesting!" Or you can say, “I didn't know that. Can you tell me more about your feelings when you run a marathon? "
Another way to show that you are listening carefully to the other person is to paraphrase their words. For example, you might say, “It's great that you decided to volunteer in this area. I see you like learning new things. "
If you want to learn to actively listen, remember that you need to listen carefully to what your interlocutor is saying and think about it. Instead of sitting and trying to formulate an answer, focus on what you are being told and absorb the information.
When you have a good relationship with a person and he begins to trust you, then you will have deep conversations on important topics for you and him. Build trust first. And then you can discuss whatever you want.