Often you'll find an invitation to continue conversation if you listen carefully and respond accordingly. Balance is key in any conversation.

Alternate between talking and listening to what other person is saying and make additional comments as appropriate.

Learning how to start a conversation is really just using good manners and showing a genuine interest in others.

4. Even if you find it extremely difficult, always greet those you encounter with a smile and look them directly in eye.

It may be hard at first, but self-confidence is a learned skill and by acting confidently, you will gain new self-confidence.

Soon enough you will notice that it is not as hard to maintain eye contact and carry on a conversation. Act confidently and you will eventually become confident.

Developing self-confidence is an important part of learning how to start a conversation.

5. Try to remember small details about co-workers and acquaintances. Asking about a weekend plan or a relative is an excellent way to start a conversation and show genuine interest in those around you.

If you are interesting, attentive, and act with confidence you will appear to be kind of person people like to have as a friend.

By practicing these new skills until they become second nature, you will increase your own self-esteem and learn how to start a conversation easily.

Learning how to start a conversation is really just a process of practicing your social skills until they become a habit.

Repetition and determination are most important factors in building your level of confidence and conversing effortlessly in any situation.

Next, try behaving in a confident manner in private and practice until you begin to see results in public. Walk confidently and speak firmly and soon you'll find yourself behaving same confident way in social settings.

As ridiculous as it may seem, forcing yourself to act as if you are not shy can be very helpful in learning how to overcome shyness altogether.

3. One way to boost your self-confidence is to always look your best. Looking great makes you feel great and does wonders for your self-esteem.

Reduce your fear of rejection by always imagining worst outcome possible in every social situation. Then if outcome is less traumatic than you imagine, you won't dwell on rejection near as much. Observing strangers and acquaintances and how they relate to others can be a great tool in learning how to overcome shyness.

4. If you are having difficulty overcoming shyness, join clubs or go to events that interest you. It's a lot more comfortable to engage in conversations with those who have common interests.

The initial conversation will be much easier since you'll already have a topic of conversation that interests you both.

5. If you do not have confidence to approach someone new, then smile and try to be approachable. Most people are receptive to a smile and a friendly face.

You could also consider taking someone that you are comfortable with along to lessen your anxiety. Shy people are extremely reluctant to take risk of approaching new people.

If you want to learn how to overcome shyness, you may have to make an effort to be outgoing initially, but soon your new habits will become natural and easy.

There are numerous resources available to you if you need help overcoming shyness. Professional advice and tips on how to overcome shyness can be very beneficial if you are having difficulty taking that first step.