Communicating has never been convenient since technology came. It is about clicks everywhere, instant here and there. Distance is not a circumstance anymore, as long you’re both connected. Several messaging apps offer different services, such as sending messages, calls, GIFs, and stickers. However, it is challenging to keep your communication going for days without getting awkward. You don’t want to stop your conversation and assume that it’s the honeybee emoji and creep her out. The conversation you kept will end up being awkward, or worst-case scenario, gone for good.
Communication will not work without comprehension. It is not always about flowery messages, but it’s going through the same page together. Indeed, it is challenging to have substantial communication with someone you’ve met online. If you are one of those anxious people who struggle, keep reading. This article will share seven helpful tips to communicate in a meaningful way.
1. Be More Interested in Them
Let’s begin with a few minutes of small talk to warm up. You’re starting to know the person, so kindly start with polite words. Something like, “I hope you’re doing well,” or “How was your day?” Saying words along those lines develops sincerity in your conversation. When they reply, respond to the same question. Avoid being the center of the topic, and it is better to be more interested in your conversation partner. Create an atmosphere where you’re listening and care about their feelings. Share a little introduction, and get to know your chat buddy too. Who knows, you went to the same middle school.
2. Divert Your Conversation Towards Passion
The never-ending “So, tell me about yourself” seems repetitive. It is more fun to take turns sharing about passions. In this way, you can know the person based on their interest. Whether they are outgoing people or love indoors, you’ll easily connect with them. It can build a strong basis for a friendship.
If someone shares that they are a nurse, you can ask, “ What do you like most about being a nurse?”. While, if they don’t like their profession, you can ask, “What’s your thing to do when you’re not working?” Being interested in one’s hobbies and passions shows your desire to understand them. People are happy to share things that bring delight to them. Listen attentively and show that you care.
3. Don’t Use Chat Enders
There are several questions to ask when you are curious about something. It’s not to creep them, but it lets them know you care. With that said, avoid using closed-ended questions that are answerable by yes or no. Chat killers can appear lame or awkward, so use open-ended questions for more extended responses. Draw more attention to responses by asking simple questions that require more than one word. Create a sense of connection by listening attentively to them.
Moreover, communication doesn’t need to be linear all the time. It is better to revisit the topic you’ve already talked about. Don’t let crickets enter your chat room because you’ll know it’s a dead-end.
4. Look for Common Things
Fandoms are everywhere online. You’ll be glad if you meet a fellow fan from your favorite group. Sharing things in common will build excitement in your chat partner. If it turns out you’re both a Potterhead or an ARMY fan, the conversation will be more engaging.
If you don’t have similarities yet, you might influence them on something you like, or vice versa. Try mentioning interesting things that you want. They might know it and share their knowledge about it. You can also ask their opinion about something, and who knows, they eventually have the same views as you. Indeed, the conversation will develop mutual things.
5. Don’t Just Talk but Learn to Each Other
Some conversations are not cool for those show-off people. They tend to be proud because they collected a bunch of chat messages. These people brag because several are interested in them. Furthermore, this mindset is wrong. It is better to stay genuine and sincere with your chat partner. Make it a mission to learn when you meet someone new. It could be their culture, religion, and many more. Be aware that the online world is diverse too. It is filled with people with different opinions and stands. Be respectful and learn from them. You can also share something to gain new information for your chat partner. It could be your plans, life perspectives, etc.
6. Be Careful Discussing Controversial Topics
Not everyone has the same perspective as you. Some controversial topics are sensitive to others. It is best to be careful about these topics when you haven’t known them for very long. In this way, you respect their beliefs, such as political, religious, personal finance, and even their intimate relationship, including sex. These are good conversation topics, but don’t rush it to get there. It is okay when you’re both comfortable and willing to learn and respect each other’s opinions.
7. Explore More than Texting
Several services are built-in online apps and websites. Don’t get addicted to chatting; try video calls, play video games, or virtually watch a movie together. You don’t have to communicate all the time, and it is okay to relax for a while. Being a companion to your chat buddy is enough. It creates a new topic you’ll both discuss. Don’t limit yourself from knowing each other. You might discover that you both share a good taste in movies. And that’s pretty amazing!
Final Thoughts
Communication without comprehension is nonsense. It is not about many similarities but about the connection you’ve both built. A relationship composed of understanding, respect, and commitment is genuine. Remember that each story is different from the rest. Create your own!
We hope that this article helps you to communicate effectively and meaningfully. These are seven helpful tips to keep your conversation going without getting awkward at all. It is time to make new memories with newfound friends. This time, make it last!
