How to Talk to Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere

Lead the conversation during small dinners

Instructions

Choose a topic that will interest everyone.
Select a topic that all guests can relate to and have an opinion on. Consider using "what-if" questions to ignite conversations. For instance, pose a hypothetical question like, "What if you won the lottery tomorrow? What would you do first?"
Avoid topics that exclude certain guests.
Ensure that the topic of conversation doesn't alienate any guests based on their expertise or lack of knowledge about the subject. Avoid "shop talk" which might leave some feeling left out. Ask yourself "Is the topic I'm about to bring up inclusive or exclusive?"
Encourage others to share their thoughts.
Instead of dominating the conversation with your own viewpoints, prompt others for their opinions by asking, "What do you think?"
Engage the quieter guests.
If you notice someone shying away from the conversation, make an effort to involve them. Direct a question their way or bring up a topic they're familiar with. For example, you may say "I heard you recently traveled to Europe. How was your experience?"
Keep your contributions concise.
Avoid long-winded stories or monologues. Aim to balance the conversation by giving others a chance to contribute. Every time you're leading the conversation, always ask yourself "Am I giving others the opportunity to speak?"
Be respectful and authentic when talking with the opposite sex.
Approach conversations with the opposite sex with authenticity and respect. Avoid using clichéd pickup lines. Instead, begin with genuine questions about shared interests or current events.