by Ronnee Ruselle

There are some subjects and behaviours that can end a conversation dead and either offend others or leave you in a bad light. The following list gives some suggestions for what to avoid when in a conversation.

Medical problems - No matter how bad your medical situation is and how upset you are, discussing them at a social gathering can put a downer on the occasion. It's best to keep these details for a private conversation with friends.

Gossip - Getting to know someone usually evolves over a series of questions. This is not the time to share gossip about yourself or another person. Avoid becoming too personal with your information. That sort of conversation can give a bad impression and can be left for another time if the person becomes a good friend.

Money - It is not appropriate to ask other people how much money they have, how much they earn or how they pay off their expenses. It is their personal business. Outside of discussing general subjects such as the cost of living, such subjects should be avoided.

Bad Breath - This one leaves a long lasting negative affect on those you are speaking to, so check your breath before the event, keep breath mints with you or gum but try to avoid chewing while you are speaking to somebody. For other tips on coping with bad breath, see here

Long drawn out conversations - Whether it be your hobby or your career, people get bored when the conversation becomes too long. Avoid telling your biography or your epic saga about your amazing career in favour of a brief, interesting outline and avoid using industry jargon. Remember that other people may find it interesting that you collect thimbles, but will not need to know the history of thimble making or about each piece in your collection.

Be conscious of the topic - If you are at a sit down dinner, it may not be the best time to discuss how you birth your puppies in your dog breeding business or how your stomach deals with spicy foods. Avoid such subjects that may be distasteful or turn others off their meals. Discussing subjects such as politics, religion and sport can inflame others. Most people are on the lookout for these subjects and will avoid them. Avoid telling information that is too personal or asking about personal subjects.

Rumours - Similar to gossip, avoid passing on rumours about other people Not only are they unfounded, but they could result in legal problems at a later date if you are proven to have slandered someone.

You might also like to read: How to be a Great Conversationalist