CIP019: An Introvert's Guide To Cracking Conversation

In this week's episode of the Creative Introvert Podcast, we tackle what makes for a cracking conversation - and how introverts can, er, crack it. First of all let’s clarify this myth about introverts being social recluses who hate people. Hopefully you know that that is bullshit - unless that is the case for you, well, just know it’s not true for all introverts. I LOVE a good chat with someone. Not even close friends - I’ve been known to enjoy talking to strangers sometimes just as much. BUT. There are a few conditions that make for a stellar introvert conversation - and a few conditions that make for a dire one. The kind where you want the ground to part and to be sucked in to a black abyss - just to relieve you of the awfulness. Anyway - the point of this podcast is to acknowledge the conditions that generally make for a great conversation if you are an introvert OR if you’re an extrovert talking to an introvert - some things to consider. Not every conversation will be wonderful - whether it’s at work, at family gatherings, parties - if you’re unlucky enough to find yourself at one - and general day-to-day activities. BUT I’m convinced that with these tips I’m about to outline, you’ll be able to steer a conversation into a much more introvert-friendly direction, use your natural introvert strengths to make it even better - and get the fuck out of it if it is really that bad. What I cover: Why introverts are at a disadvantage when speaking in meetings and debates What to do when you keep getting interrupted The real deal with eye contact The top mistake we make when meeting in a public location Small talk - how to make it big talk (without being weird)   Links mentioned: How noise affects us Patricia Weber Laurie Helgoe - Introvert Power Amy Cuddy's TED talk Erich Fromm's Art of Listening Alain de Botton - The Course of Love