How do I improve my conversation skills?

[OntheupsoIam]

I really need to improve my conversation skills for social situations and at work. There are lots of books but can anyone make any recommendations? Thank you.

Try to properly listen to what the other person is saying rather than planning what you are going to say next. Don’t waffle when it’s your turn to speak. I find both of these very difficult!

I hadn’t realised but you’re right - I do try to plan what I’m going to say next rather than listening properly.

How To Talk To Anyone by Leil Lowndes - an old book now but still very good.
Focus on listening more than talking, and show understanding more than judgement.

If in doubt listen more than talk. I'd also argue it's better to ask someone to repeat something that you didn't catch rather than guess what they said, it's obvious when you've guessed wrong and people don't like it.

You can apologise - sorry I’m slow to answer my brain runs on half speed. Or similar - I have to run trough what I’m told before coming up with a reply unless it’s something g I am knowledgable on.
I also find. But it might be me, that people are keen to tell me stuff but often dont even hear my reply (cos they aren’t really interested) so probably you could come out with any old waffle and they wouldn’t notice😂