How to Master the Art of Conversation The art of conversation is a skill shared by most successful people. Good conversation promotes an image of self-confidence, intelligence and wittiness. People who always seem to rise to the top of their professions and are well respected by others share the ability to converse with anybody in every situation. People who seem to speak effortlessly and efficiently with others are generally well-liked and highly-successful. If you need to improve your conversational skills, here are a few tips that can help you enhance your conversational skills and boost your image. Always say what you think, not what you think others want you to say. Especially in a professional setting, learning to express your views and ideas in a positive, nonthreatening manner will invite reactions and responses. Effective leaders always say what they are thinking and express their ideas freely. Listen carefully to what others are saying. People often interpret things said by others in a way that clouds their ability to hear what people are intending to say. By giving your full attention to the speaker, you can hear what they intend for you to hear instead of what you want to hear. Always assume that a speaker is saying exactly what they mean to say. Even if it seems unclear, try to find meaning and coherence to the words they are saying and give them the respect of hearing what they want you to hear. In any conversation, the ability to give respect is just as important as receiving it. To sum up, if you want to improve your professional and social standing, learn to communicate efficiently and in a positive manner. You will notice a dramatic difference in the way other people perceive you if you demonstrate self-confidence and project a friendly image.