6 Cures For The Tongue-Tied

Cocktail parties invariably lead to awkward encounters with strangers, but you don't have to talk about the weather. Here's how to get almost anyone to open up.

By Amy Shearn

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Your Favorite Complaint

There is nothing that brings people together like complaining. Bring up the worst pet you've ever had, or something endearingly annoying your favorite barista did recently. People love to pitch in with their own stories. And here's the real secret to having a conversation with anyone, anytime: be interested. Open yourself to their stories—I actually want to know about the time their husky ate their car keys—and they will feel it.

Next: 10 social skills anyone can master

Published on December 05, 2012

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