Here is an article on 'How to Keep a Conversation Going' ⬇️

Getting into a conversation is one thing. There are socially accepted scripts you can follow: you can ask how they’re liking the weather, or how they know the host, or what they do for fun. But once you’re in a conversation, how do you maintain it? That’s where it gets a bit trickier. Here are five tips and tricks from experts to help you next time you experience an awkward mid-conversation silence.

1. Make sure you look interested.

Nothing kills a conversation faster than a face that says, “I’m waiting for this conversation to end so I can go do something else.” Make sure you look alert and interested. Don’t scan the rest of the room over your conversation partner’s shoulder, try to maintain an appropriate amount of eye contact.

2. Don’t discount small talk.

Small talk has a bad reputation, but it can both keep a conversation going and lead to bigger things. So go ahead — talk about the news, what your plans are for the weekend, and the things you do for fun. “We have to earn the right to have deeper conversation,” 

3. Listen actively.

Make sure you’re really listening to what the other person is saying, rather than just waiting for your turn to talk. What do they seem to be interested in? What do they want to talk about? “Instead of coming with an agenda, listen to what someone is enthusiastically talking about, and ask a question about it,”

4. Ask open-ended questions.

Don’t fall into the trap of asking a series of yes-or-no questions. This makes it too easy for the conversation to stall, and too easy for your conversation partner to feel like they’re being quizzed. Instead, focus on open-ended questions.

5. Stay calm, and practice.

Try not to feel nervous. Even if you’re not naturally gifted at conversation, as long as you remain kind and interested your conversation partner will likely leave with a positive impression.