How to talk to anyone

Anyone can become a smooth talker; it just takes a little practice.
You Will Need
* The latest news
* A charming smile
* An opening question
* Good listening skills

Step 1: Be well-informed
Begin every day with a quick review of the news so you’re never stuck for a conversation starter.

Step 2: Find an opener
If you prefer a more personal approach, quickly scan a person’s outfit for something you can use to initiate a conversation.

Step 3: Start with a smile
Before you say a word, give them a special smile: Make eye contact with the person, wait a second, and then slowly let a smile spread across your face. Research shows this little trick immediately charms people.

Make your opening line a question that can’t be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”

Step 4: Really listen
Listen for casual asides; people often make references to topics they love. Prove you’re really listening by remarking on something they just said.

Make sure to say “you” more than “I” during the chat.

Step 5: Don't seem overeager
Resist the urge to yelp “Me, too!” or agree with everything the person says. It will make you seem needy and insincere.

Step 6: Do some talking
Don’t turn the encounter into an interrogation. Though you want to encourage the other person to talk about themselves, you need to contribute to the dialogue, too.

Steer clear of topics you’re overly passionate about; you run the risk of monopolizing the conversation or lecturing.

Step 7: Don't overstay your welcome
If you realize the other person isn’t saying much, tell them you’ve enjoyed talking to them and move on.

Fact: According to a Stanford study, the most successful business-school graduates were the ones comfortable having conversations with strangers, not the ones with the best grades.