3. In order to move conversation forward, ask questions to clarify or invite additional information.

Questions indicate that you are fully attentive to what is being said and that you have a real interest in speaker's views.

Give your full attention to speaker. When you show others that you want to hear them, they will automatically grant you same courtesy.

Maintain eye contact and always face speaker. You will be able to express your own views much more effectively if you have full attention of your audience.

If you give your full attention, you will certainly receive same in return.

4. Engage in light, pleasant conversation as often as you engage in meaningful, direct conversation.

If you always guide conversation in direction of achieving your goal, you will leave impression of distance and a superior attitude.

You will get a much more favorable response if you relate to others on a personal level as well as in a professional or authoritative manner.

People want to feel appreciated and unique. Make a point to address each person you encounter and do so in a positive, friendly manner. Conversation skills include treating others as you would like to be treated.

Good conversation skills include much more than simply speaking with others. Listening, good body language, questioning, pleasantries, and mutual respect are important elements in any conversation and are also personality traits exhibited by successful people.

You can improve your image and your ability to communicate if you follow these simple guidelines when communicating with others.

3. If you want to always have plenty to say to co-workers and your employer, keep up to date on latest developments in your particular field.

Read trade magazines, company literature, and search web sites. Having ability to hold an intelligent conversation about your line of work will make you invaluable in your company and allow you to communicate effectively.

Be discreet and professional in your conversations with other employees. No supervisor will begrudge you a few moments of small talk now and then, but constant chatting and talking across room to others is distracting and unprofessional.

Chat for a few minutes when your workload allows, but keep it quiet and courteous.

4. Courtesy, genuine interest, and a little preparation will give you an advantage in your ability to converse with others.

Make a mental note of things of interest that can be used to start a conversation and give you an edge in workplace.

Current events, local politics, and activities of others will always make good conversation starters whether at home or at office.

Conversational tips include common courtesy, a positive attitude, and a little planning. If you observe a few simple rules, your communication skills will improve dramatically.

These conversation tips should be enough to get you started down path of successful communication. The ability to carry on a conversation with very little effort is a learned skill that comes easier to some than others.

If you need to improve your conversational skills, practice these tips each day and pretty soon they will be habits that come naturally.