Presented by BetterHelp.
The capacity to seamlessly integrate into an ongoing discourse is a fundamental competency in social interaction. Possessing the self-assurance to approach a group or an individual at a party or event where you don’t know many people can allow you to feel welcome and increase your chances of making friends.
Joining An Existing Conversation
Contents
Get Your Conversation Topics Ready
Read up on the subject matter so you can participate intelligently and intelligently in group discussions. Be sure to keep up with the daily news. Keep up with current events in the realms of sports and entertainment. Know the basics of any current events that might come up in discussion.
You can use all of these techniques to better integrate into existing conversations. In addition to understanding the context in which the conversation is taking place, you may also realize that you have something to contribute to the conversation by sharing personal information about yourself, such as your favorite places or bands. Visit BetterHelp to learn more about how doing some light prep before social situations can greatly alleviate anxiety.
Pick A Group To Join
Pick a bunch of chatterboxes whose chat you’d like to join. Find a group that is discussing something you are interested in or at which you already know someone.
But don’t dally too much while you search for the ideal squad! The point is not to have the best conversation ever, but to practice joining an ongoing conversation.
Make Eye Contact And Listen Attentively
Stay at the periphery of the conversation and listen carefully until you fully understand what’s going on. Focus on making eye contact with one or two people to convey that you care about the conversation. If you suffer from social anxiety, you may avoid making eye contact and come across as distant or uninterested. If you want to put individuals at ease, make an effort to make direct eye contact with them as you speak.
Enter The Conversation Courteously
Do not interrupt unless there is a pause in the dialogue. Do not interrupt the flow of conversation when you join it; instead, respectfully inquire, “Are you talking about last night’s episode?” or “Can I ask you a question?”
Be Interested In The Group
Participate in conversations and ask thoughtful questions. Remember what you hear and repeat it back to the speaker. To assist others get to know you better, try asking them open-ended questions that allow them to share their thoughts and experiences.
Since those with social anxiety are less likely to contribute to a discussion, it is especially important for those who are just starting to participate in a new group to show that they are paying attention and are interested in what others have to say.
Think about it: would you rather approach someone who seems open and welcoming, or someone who seems timid and withdrawn? Put yourself in the shoes of someone you’d like to have a conversation with, and you’ll discover that people are more receptive to you.
Moving Beyond Your Comfort Zone
What if you’re always in social situations when you feel awkward but you can’t bring yourself to break the ice? If you suffer from social anxiety, one strategy to help you overcome your fear of talking to others is to put yourself in a position where you must interact with others. You could volunteer to take charge of a group, for instance. If you’re the sort who always wants to do a good job, this new position will push you out of your comfort zone and get you talking. Don’t overdo it if socializing tires you out; instead, take breaks when necessary. Your ability to carry on in-depth discussions should improve with practice.
