This document provides tips for improving conversation skills. It recommends pausing before responding to avoid interrupting others and to give careful consideration to what was said. Asking open-ended questions like "how do you mean?" keeps the conversation flowing and demonstrates active listening. Paraphrasing the speaker shows you are paying attention to understand their perspective. Listening builds trust and improves self-esteem in both parties. It takes discipline to focus on others' words given our faster processing speed, but practicing listening makes you a better conversationalist and develops your character.