The Art of Conversation

Generally it takes exactly three seconds to evaluate someone from across a crowded room based on their appearance, attire and mannerism. First impressions count. If you’re conversational skills don’t match your Hugh Jackman hot looks, you’ll be scratched from the race before you even cross the starter’s line. KASANOVA’s conversational tips will ensure you don’t come across as just another blathering git.

Introductions
Rocking up and saying “Hi baby, it must’ve hurt when you fell from heaven,” or a myriad of other cheesy pick up lines are not going to get you anywhere. In the style of Bridget Jones, introduce yourself with thoughtful intellect. For example. “Hello, I’m (insert name), are you having a good night so far?” Always follow up introductions with a firm hand shake. There’s something very sexy about a solid grip.

About Yourself

You might think you’re interesting, but you’re not that interesting.  Avoid dribbling on about yourself for extended periods of time. She doesn’t need to know about the New Year’s Eve you spent in Italy in 1997, or drinking nights with your amazing mates in intricate details, or how many trophies you’ve won.  It’s not all about you. Don’t forget to ask her questions and listen intently to her answers instead of trying to top her stories.

Jokes

Everyone loves the light-hearted, funny guy. He’s approachable, easy going and often is the life of the party. However, females also like to see you have a serious, sensitive side as well. Choose your jokes wisely. Refrain from any immature jokes where the subject is bodily functions or blondes in M&M factories.

Fitness

Ok, so you work out and it shows. Literally, keep your biceps to yourself and don’t flex while passing her drinks. Also avoid mentioning how much weight you lift and how many bench presses you do. Don’t brag about fights you’ve been in, guys you’ve knocked out or could have, if given the chance. The only person you’ll end up impressing is yourself



Illnesses

Whether it’s festering haemorrhoids, your nana’s latest shingles attack, or the old sporting injuries which saw your knee fractured, spleen ruptured, and spine crushed. By all means use sympathy, but  keep it simple Avoid mentioning bed pans, catheters or show her stitches, battle scars or venous punctures unless she asked (and believe me she won’t).


Work

The line “I am kind of a big deal here, people know me” only works if you’re Will Farrell on Anchorman. Don’t rave on about your qualifications, how your boss loves you or that the company will reach financial demise without your skilled account management. Stay modest, and only discuss the interesting aspects of your job. If you’re an accountant, shut up.

Pranks you played when you were at University

If you graduated over three years ago, then you’re no longer qualified to discuss “hilarious” pranks you’ve pulled on campus. You will not be regarded as particularly witty or charming if you mentioned that you placed three pigs’ heads in your roommate’s bed, yes, even if he did “huff and puff”.

Combine the above with keeping eye contact, good listening skills, standing up straight, being positive and you’re sure to create a lasting impression that counts.

~ Leigh-Anne Wadley