Facial Expression and the Art of Conversation
The human face is truly a marvel. With the slight shifting of muscle and skin we are able to express immeasurable happiness, heart wrenching sadness,
or paralyzing fear without uttering a single syllable. For that reason, our facial expression is an important tool to use if we want to master the art of conversation.
The Warm Smile
If you want to be an expert conversationalist then smile. A nice smile conveys to your conversation partner that you are a warm, friendly and happy person, and who wouldn't
want to talk to someone like that. Also remember to vary your smile. Sometimes a small upturn of the corners of your mouth will due instead of a big toothy grin. Of course
there are situations where the conversation doesn't warrant a smile at all, but be quick to flash a really great smile whenever the occasion arises.
Smiling Eyes
The eyes have been called the “windows to the soul”. What does the look in your eyes say about you? The way you look at someone can express warmth and friendliness, or disinterest
and annoyance. If your conversation partner interrupts that look in your eye to be one of the later, then your conversation will quickly end. So, don't forget to smile with your
eyes, and you will be a joy to converse with.
Dancing Eyebrows
You're eyebrows serve two purposes. They help catch tiny particles that might fall into your eyes, and they're extremely useful in helping you express surprise, and several other emotions.
So use those dancing eyebrows when you're having a chat, they will help add animation to your conversation.
I'm particularly fond of the one eyebrow lift that says, “Hmmm, I find you very interesting.”
Make Your Expression Match Your Words
Have you ever had a conversation with some one who said one thing, but their face told you another. “I love you” coming from a scowling face conveys a totally different message then the same
words coming from someone who has that love reflected in his eyes. Try to always have the expression on your face match what you say. Your words will come across as honest and sincere, not contrived.
What Does Your Face Say?
The best way to find out is to take a look at yourself in the mirror as you have a mock conversation. Practice smiling so that you can perfect the warm smile. Notice your eyes, and
what they express. Learn to make good use of your eyebrows. Since “practice makes perfect”, work on perfecting the use of facial expressions in your conversations.
What Does Your Conversation Partner's Face Say?
This is where good eye contact comes into play. Making good eye contact gives you ample opportunity to observe your conversation partners expression. By observing his smile, or lack there of, the expression
in his eyes and the subtle lifting of his eyebrows, you will learn a lot about how your conversation partner feels about what he’s saying. Sometimes those feelings can tell you much more than words alone.
As we have learned in this conversation tip, facial expressions are an important part of communication. Learn to use your entire face when communicating, and become skilled at observing and interpreting the
facial expressions of others, and you will be well on your way to being a master at making good conversation.
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