Three key skills to improve conversation are: 1) Pause before replying to avoid interrupting, show consideration for what was said, and hear the person better. 2) Ask questions like "How do you mean?" to control the conversation, get the person to explain more, and keep it flowing. 3) Paraphrase what the person said in your own words to demonstrate attentiveness, build trust, and increase their self-esteem. Listening is a powerful tool that builds these things.