(PRWEB) October 16, 2004 -- Holidays are stressful for nearly everyone, but for some people making conversation at office parties is downright agonizing. For these folks, small talk presents a big problem. But there is still time for them to brush up on their mingling skills and have fun at parties this holiday season.
    
According to "small talk" expert and author Don Gabor (How to Start a Conversation and Make Friends; Simon & Schuster/Fireside 2001) -- anyone can feel more comfortable mingling if they avoid these common goofs:

1. Not preparing several topics that you're willing to bring up and talk about at the party.
2. Displaying closed body language that says, "I'm not interested in talking to you."
3. Remaining in one place (like a potted plant!) and waiting for others to approach you.
4. Not introducing yourself or remembering the person's name.
5. Not adding on "free information" when asked a yes/no or short-answer question.
6. Asking several "closed-ended" questions instead of a few "open-ended" questions.
7. Trying too hard to impress others by talking too much.
8. Discussing taboo topics such as sex, politics, religion, illnesses, or personal problems.
9. Arguing over minor details -- even if you are certain you're right.
10. Abruptly ending the conversation after a negative comment or a moment of silence.

Don Gabor writes books, gives corporate workshops and coaches individuals on conversation skills, public speaking and networking. Since 1980, Don has helped more than a half-million people improve their ability to communicate and connect with others at work, home and everywhere in between. Don was a spokesperson for Grand Marnier, Sprint and Frito-Lay. His books have been featured in more than 1000 media interviews including the New York Times, Newsday, Fitness, National Enquirer, Readers Digest, Self, Entrepreneur, and “60 Minutes With Andy Rooney.” The New Yorker called Don, “a gifted conversationalist.”

FREE for your audience or readers: To receive a free conversation tip sheet "50 Ways to Improve Your Conversations," send a self-addressed envelope to Don Gabor, P.O. Box 715, Brooklyn, NY 11215.
         
Writers, reporters, and producers: Do you want a review copy? Please send me your mailing address and I'll send you a review copy.

P.S. Need an expert to interview for other holiday stories? I have many communication tips and real-life examples for at home and at work. For any questions, to book an interview, to get your review copy, please contact me at 718-768-0824, or email me at e-mail protected from spam bots.

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