The Art of Conversation - Real Estate and Technology News for Agents, Broker

The Art of Conversation

In real estate we are always talking! But how many times have we made a casual off-handed remark we wish we could take back....more than you care to think about?

"We're all capable of the occasional social blunder. Of course, some of us seem more prone to it than others, but even the savviest people aren't impervious to such gaffes." states an article on Mint.com about the Top 10 Conversation Etiquette Mistakes to avoid.

Mistakes happen. So what are the blunders to avoid? David Letterman style, here are the top ten most common conversation mistakes:

#10: Pushing your own topics or agenda. "Let the conversation progress naturally; contribute where relevant and on-topic," says the article. Don't force your opinions on others.

#9: Checking your phone: Nothing says "not interested" as much as this gesture. Whatever did we do when we couldn't be reached for an hour? Check your messages later.

#8: Forgetting who you're talking to: That story you told last night to your friends was funny, but the same conversation is not appropriate for your boss or client.

#7: One-upmanship: This is a great way to alienate yourself from your audience. Keep your competitiveness in check.

#6: Not greeting someone properly: When someone comes over to you at a restaurant...get up from your seat to greet them, shake hands and ask how the family is doing.

#5: Cursing: Sure, every now and then it seems like the only way to punctuate a story. "Being too heavy with swearing is always a mistake when it comes to conversation. Get a thesaurus; find alternate expletives." says the article.

#4: Not looking at the person you are talking to: Show some respect, your eyes should always remain focused on your speaking companion.

#3: Not introducing who you are with: Involve everyone in the conversation by introducing all parties in the group. If necessary, introduce yourself if no one else will.

#2: Don't monopolize the conversation: This is one of the most common mistakes and people will begin to avoid you.

And the Number One conversation etiquette mistake is:

Interrupting: Everybody does it and it shows that you have no interest in hearing what the other person has to say. "The easiest way to avoid it is simple," says the article, "just listen." Focus on what is being said and don't worry about what you are going to say next.

Read the full article at Mint.com.

photo credit: Michael Oh