Conversation is an interesting art

We all agree with people who feel that when two British meet the first thing they talk is about weather. Maybe the uncertain weather in their country is the reason for that or it is also possible they do it for the purpose of breaking the ice.

I have personal experience of British talking about weather first thing in the morning even when the weather was hot and sunny. As I have mentioned about my favorite weekend destination Goa which is a hot and dry place and my frequent visits to that place.

I was accompanied by a British youngster of my age during my initial posting in Karnataka. The first thing that he asked was, “Is it sunny outside?” I was taken aback for a moment as the room was filled with sun and the weather was hot but the British are probably so used to asking this question first thing in the morning.

I soon recovered and smiled back and he smiled back looking at the window where I was standing. You may find it funny but we Indians need no reason to get involved in conversation and that too with complete strangers within no time. In fact, I personally believe that one must know the art of conversation and I am not saying this as a marketing professional who is generally expert in talks.

I can only say that different people have said different good things regarding good balanced conversation skills for instance one gets loud and uncertain during a negotiation because they feel they have something to gain if they fail to make their claim properly. I agree they can do better than that but not if they stand quietly saying nothing or not even an eye contact.

People should claim their stake but in a balanced manner and perhaps that is why human resources departments of various multinational and indigenous companies asking a wide range of behavior related questions from their prospective employees.

Image source  https://pixabay.com/en/friends-male-men-outside-winter-1209740/