Enthusiasm for the subject

Techniques > Conversation techniques > Enthusiasm for the subject

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Show that you are interested in what they are talking about. If they are interested in sailing, express a passion for the sea. If they like horses, talk about going to the races. Use probing questions to find out more.

You can also be enthusiastic about something in which you are interested. Be animated. Tell interesting stories. Talk about the subject with passion.

Example

Oh wow! I didn't realize that was how it worked. Please do tell me more.

Discussion

Emotions are contagious, and few more so than enthusiasm. When people see how switched on you are by a subject, they will want to share in the positive emotions and join you in your interest. (Note that the reverse is true, and negative emotions will drag the other person down).

Enthusiasm is

A caveat here: It is very easy to get yourself into deep water if you pretend to know about a subject where they have significant expertise. If you start talking about football with great enthusiasm you may find them enthusiastically asking you questions about specific moves in last week's game.