How to implement better banter into your conversations

How many of you want to be a better conversationalist? Well, first, you should check out my previous article posted about being likable. Anyway, here are some tips for better banter to put into your conversations.

1. Don't change the subject, unless it's necessary to do so. When talking with somebody, it's good to maintain the same subject, until it gets dry. Don't change the subject in conversations that are currently open-ended.
   
   For example, if someone says "People say that I'm a good worker" - then don't say "Yeah, I work all the time". Instead of changing the subject (which will imply bad listening), say something about it... "What makes you a good worker?" By doing this, you're implementing a conversation tactic on which they can talk about themselves. Therefore, people will like you a lot more in the end.
2. Be positive, be encouraging. If someone says "my boss doesn't like me", then say uplifting things such as "well, I don't know why...you're smart, neat, and cool!" When you offer up these uplifting words, for example, you'll get a friend real quick, or even maintain your friendship to new heights.
   
3. Be the conversation leader. Instead of always asking "how's it going?" Instead, why not open up the field a bit for an actual conversation... "Hey, how did that game go last night between the Lakers and the Bulls?" By implementing this challenge to the field, they'd be willing to chat about something. If you always ask the first question, you'll get a one or two word answer, usually. Then, you have to think about something else to ask.
4. Be colorful, and avoid being awkward. When you're telling a story, be active with the experience. Tell things in the conversation that bring details to life. But, don't include awkward sensitive or confusing details. You want the person you're talking to to leave the conversation with a nice look on their face, not a confused look.
5. Bring things full circle and finish the conversation at an appropriate time. When you're talking with someone, always conclude with something you started talking about. This not only helps the other person realize what you first talked about, but also helps them realize the conversation is closing - therefore, they don't become long-winded anymore. Make sure to imply the conversation is almost over, if you're trying to conclude.

Hope these tips satisfy your social ability, and hopefully your networking will improve. Kudos!