Good manners are the same everywhere in the world. There require only a few minutes to learn; yet they make life pleasant. ‘Please”, “Thank you”, “Excuse me”, “I’m sorry” and “I beg your pardon” and such very little words. But they mean so much.

Manners are a reflection of ourselves and we need to mind them when we practise social skills. Lets us take conversation for example.

A conversation is an exchange of views and ideas. It should give pleasure to the people involved. Therefore….

• you should not take it as an oppurtunity to preach, lecture, debate or condemn. Avoid controversial topics like religion or race unless you are with your very close friends.

• always speak clearly and listen intelligently. Sometimes do ask a question or make a comment to show that you are listening. This will make you very popular! Avoid rude and irritating lines like, “What’s that? I can’t hear you. Can you speak louder?”

• never monopolize a conversation. Never pretend to know everthing or tell stories to show how clever you are. Remember, your opinion may not be shared by everyone.

• at the same time, you do not have to be a sphinx. It is ill-mannered to be utterly silent. In that case, why did you come to the party?

Making conversation is an art. All you need are thoughtfulness, practice and good manners!

Read more: http://socyberty.com/relationships/the-art-of-conversation-3/#ixzz1jsobeljd