Each and every one of us has our own unique personality and our voice matters significantly whether we realize it or not.  In conversation, there should be a matter of equal give and take, but that is not always the case.  It's inevitable, you find yourself in a one-sided conversation where you can't get a word in and, on the other extreme, where you have to carry the entire conversation.  The key is for you not to be such a person.

Hopefully the majority of the time, you have a conversation where it's a delight.  It depends on the type of person you are talking to and how they voice their opinion in conversation. There is a simple rule by which, if one is voluble, one can refrain from being a pest - by merely pausing and thinking before speaking. The faults of conversation are committed not by those who talk too little, but by those who talk too much. The lack of consideration during conversation is what causes faults and mistakes. On the other hand, those who have a difficult time carrying on a conversation are usually the ones that fear silence.


Do you remember the old sign at the railroad crossings - STOP, LOOK, LISTEN?  If you do it is not only excellent advice to cross the tracks but also in conversation.

STOP      - not to rush recklessly forward

LOOK      - pay attention to the expression of the person with whom you are talking

LISTEN    - exactly that - is the best advice possible

Here are some other tips to keep in mind while conversing with others:

                                    DO NOT                                                                                                        DO

          Repeat the subject you are talking about                                         Be considerate during the conversation
         
Talk about the unattractiveness of old age to the elderly                        Say what is appreciative about something
                                                                                                                           one has done

            Commenting on physical attributes                                                Speak of subjects that are agreeable  to                                                                                                                                the listener

Commenting on or ask about expense or other money matters           Be a sympathetic listener


If you follow these useful tips I can guarantee that you will become a better overall listener and conversationalist.  Remember the most important rule is to stop and think. The burden of thinking before speaking is our own.