They could have been more polite and organized, but they weren’t.
They could have been more intellectual and stimulating, but they weren’t.
They could have been quiet and easy to follow, but they weren’t.
The other people could have let you get a word in edgewise, but they didn’t.
Group conversations are, as MacLeod explains, a “vortex of noise and chaos.”
Remember, people think about you a lot less than you might think.
Change your perspective on the whole ordeal and swooping in with a clever anecdote may come easier for you.
Sit near the center, jump into the circle, and face the majority of the group whenever possible.
If it looks like you’re not a part of the conversation, then you won’t be.
Look in the mirror and take some time to see how you look when sit and stand comfortably.
Do you look like you want to be social?
If not, practice a more open style of body language.
If you don’t show that you have something to say, people may never realize it.
Avoid crossing your arms, constantly looking down, fidgeting, and looking around for no particular reason.
Maintaining non-creepy eye contact and nodding occasionally can help show that you really are listening.
Now, the hard part:really listen.
Generally, a big group conversation at a party or other social event will be loud and boisterous.
In that case, talking too softly will ensure that you end up talking to yourself.
Dig deep, use your diaphragm, and project your words so you know that everyone can hear you.
Speak loud and speak proud.
Not every group conversation involves a drink in hand, however.
Group conversations at work, in quiet areas, or at a professional gathering may require a different approach.
It’s that you don’t communicate power and thus, you don’t hold their attention.
The key is that you express yourself with authority so your volume may not be as important.
you better know when to be civil, but you also need to know when to strike.
Sometimes the only way to get a word in edgewise is by interrupting.
The only way to know for sure is to take risks and practice.
Keep things light, apologize, and use humor to disarm them if you’re able.
When others take a stab at interrupt you, pick your battles.
Be polite, but firm.
Smile and remember, pleases and thank yous go a long way.
Photo byMorgan,Jimmy Baikovicius,Loren Kerns,Francisco Osorio,Frederick Dennstedt,Coffee Party USA.
