Her Ladyship's Guide to the Art of Conversation

Wherever you are, whatever the company, the ability to engage and entertain your companions will always stand you in good stead. For many though, summoning up the courage to be heard in a crowded room, or seated next to a stranger at a dinner party, can test one's nerves to the limit. What to say, and how to put yourself and your interlocutor at ease requires a range of skills and Her Ladyship is on hand to help you through even the most difficult of situations. From a garden party amongst royals to a business reception, this book covers common mistakes of conversational etiquette and offers countless suggestions on how to keep the conversation flowing so that you become the most valued of guests. Her Ladyship considers the art of conversation in all sorts of contexts, from a chance encounter on a long railway journey to making new friends, and also takes account of the fact that more and more of our 'conversations' take place via text and email rather than talking. She covers: first impressions (from greetings, handshakes, body language and eye contact), introducing yourself (even if you've met them before!), making yourself sound interesting, suiting your conversation to the occasion, dealing with age differences, the art of listening, dealing with bores, and dating conversations. Advice and case studies will help make you the essential guest at any get together.

Caroline Taggart is the author of Her Ladyship's Guide to the Queen's English, I Used to Know That, The Book of English Place Names and The Book of London Place Names, and co-author of My Grammar and I (or should that be 'Me'?). Also a highly experienced editor, she visits literary festivals and writers' workshops around the country, advising aspiring writers on how to get published. She is not related to Her Ladyship, but shares many of her prejudices. She lives in London.