... how to have more engaging conversations and not just boring small talk
359072
I have always struggled with meeting new people and figuring out how to have more engaging conversations and not just boring small talk. Many books I read on people skills just didn't do it for me until I read Captivate. The author is so knowledgeable, and I love how she gives real world examples in every single chapter! It was very refreshing to get some real and useful conversation starters.  They have been easy to apply in my daily life when meeting new people (which I do all of the time in my line of work).
If you have ever struggled with meeting new people and striking up conversation then Captivate is a must read!
134217
I personally think this a good book that basically reminds us critical essentials and techniques to start conversations with both loved ones and strangers and points out simple methods for keeping those conversations going.
3881580
I thought that this book was good because it immediately touches on a few tips to get you to small talk with others. I found that some tips and quotes were useful and I felt comfortable engaging with others.

I've always had a serious issue speaking with others, let alone having small talk. It's strange because I come from a family of social butterflies; my mom is a waitress, dad is a tour guide and brother is a salesman. I guess I'm quite the oddball of the family in regards to socializing (I'm a programmer). Aside from my pool of friends and family, it was always difficult for me to talk to others because I've always been naturally shy and timid.

However, the book teaches you some tips to be comfortable when speaking with others. At 70 pages you can finish it in one afternoon. I highly recommend this book if you need some pointers. If you implement some of the tips presented from the book you will see immediate results. My only criticism is that though the book is excellent at providing strategies, it doesn't necessarily pinpoint the issue. Of course that is up to the individual to discover and ultimately solve. But most of the tips felt like short-term strategies rather than long-term solutions. Don't expect to become a motivational speaker overnight. On the flip side, becoming a better speaker and talker is a life-long practice. The book certainly lays out the foundations to walk that path if you chose to. With practice I've seen myself engaging better with others and avoiding that dreaded awkward silence.
1598267
Each of us can improve the world a little bit by effectively communicating with our spouses, partners, in-laws, children, colleagues, etc., and Marcia Naomi Berger shows us how. Although the focus of the book is on holding weekly marriage meetings to exchange appreciation, designate chores, plan fun and nourishing activities, and solve problems, we can use these same practical interpersonal skills to communicate honestly with others and strengthen almost any relationship. I found the self-talk process enlightening as a way to discover my own feelings to help me respond positively rather than react negatively in personal and professional situations. Berger's very practical book based on her professional and personal success with these meetings has excellent examples we can relate to for each step. I think it would be a courageous book-club choice for adults of all ages, especially for anyone thinking about getting married.
861116
Is not that is hard for me to start a small talk or keep one going but this book caught my eye because i don't just want to start or keep a talk going but i want to entertain at the same time. this book is a fantastic introduction to those that are having problems in that area or just want to learn more like myself, i really recommend checking it out.

i got this book for free and i was not pay to write this review this is 100% honest thoughts on it
4825384
If you are looking for a way to achieve rapport easily and effectively with lots of people in lots of different situations, this book is definitely a must read.
1963455
A great reference guide for how to have intentional, effective conversations. The communication strategies shared are applicable to both personal and professional relationships; not to mention the relationship with yourself. Helpful without being self help-y, this book is a worthy read.
1716455
Sarah has a distinct way of writing. She takes this book beyond the sex talk and gives parents real life application on how to have tough conversations about intimacy with our kids. She speaks directly to the heart of the matter when speaking about puberty and body image. I also loved how she tackled the topic of intimacy and connected it to faith. She refocuses us to the main thing, which is helping our children find their identity in Christ. This book is direct, yet lighthearted. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a meaningful way to create dialogue with your children around the topic of intimacy.
3638040
The book is filled with both useful and entertaining information.  It's fun to hear from women from all different lifestyles.  I personally wouldn't have the opportunity to talk to women that work in so many different lines of work, so it was interesting to get a glimpse into their lives and thoughts.

This is not what I would call a sit down and read type of book.  It's the type of book that you read a little bit here and a little bit there.  (It's good for in the bathroom or in the car.) Topics covered in the book include: Friend Talk, Career Talk, Clothes Talk, Beauty Talk, Health Talk, Home Talk, Kitchen Talk, Mommy Talk, Pet Talk, and Travel Talk.
1561696
I found this book easily engaging. The ideas were presented in such a way that it felt like a conversation with a good friend. I ended the book feeling more empowered to engage in hard dialogue about my own vulnerabilities with new practical tools. I highly recommend.
4403764
A group recommended this enjoyable little book. The author has proposed interesting and thought-provoking questions for interesting conversations. I would add that many of the quesstions could extend beyond couples - they could work with friends getting to know each other better!
3346838
Meeting children and young adults for the first time and interacting can be awkward.  This book offers a low stress fun way to interact while developing and using problem solving strategies.
2637559
Great read that doesn't just focus on the importance of communication, but also breaks down strategy and skills to apply in the real world. A breath of fresh air that's both enjoyable and educational. The author is honest, insightful and not afraid to say it like it really is.
862267
Conversation starters for children, what a novel idea! In a day and age when children are glued to their technology-this book shares tons of fun and insightful conversation tips to spark discussions! This is a great book for parents, teachers, councilors, coaches and more. As a coach, I understand the importance of positive questions and open dialog for inspiring thought, relationship building, healing and creating dreams! I love the concept and purpose of this engaging book.
2461697
No matter where you are in life, you should improve your speaking and listening skills. We're often talking past each other and reducing what could be conversation to mere noise. This is an excellent complement to "How to Read a Book."
4578056
This slim volume helped me to appreciate the joy and power of connecting with others and the importance of small talk to gain information and develop rapport. This may be obvious to many but as an extreme introvert it isn't to me. Boothman provides simple, practical strategies and tactics that enhance introductory rapport. People criticize the "90 seconds or less" thing as a superficial gimmick, but it's not--the first 90 seconds are vital in determining the nature of the relationship, if any, that you will have with a given person for the rest of your life. I've already begun using some of Boothman's techniques and they work. I have finally begun to understand what I am doing wrong in social situations and how I can better connect. For this, I am grateful.
3896392
Stefan simply wove magic with this book. He simply tells you to listen better without using those words. If you have bad listening habits like texting or surfing the web on your phone, then you will get caught out by this book. I can positively say Im now trying harder to be attentive whenever Im in a conversation with my girlfriend. She can be very talkative and nagging- and I sometimes switch off- but Im now learning of better ways to engage with her in conversation, and sometimes even being honest enough to let her know when Im a bit tired and need some rest.