making small talk<\/a>. Being knowledgeable about anything you want to talk about can absolutely help you become a better communicator.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo change the subject, find a verbal bridge<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nListen, we\u2019ve all been in a conversation that has taken a different turn midway. It happens. Sometimes, this turn might be in a direction that we don\u2019t like, and we try our best possible to steer the conversation back onto the right course. This can prove to be a herculean task, though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To become a better communicator, try to find a verbal bridge to help you politely change the subject. Finding a verbal bridge involves identifying a topic related to both the current one and the one you\u2019re interested in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, you are telling your friend about an open casting call you saw on your way from work. You think they should audition for the part. Suddenly, your friend draws your attention to that one audition you did that fell through. This topic is a sensitive one for you, and you want to change the subject. Instead of bringing up something unrelated, you could say something like, \u201cThe resulting movie\/play [of that audition you lost] was really good though. You could implement the acting style of X for this present audition. I think it fits really well.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And just like that, you\u2019ve turned the conversation back to its origins without making it too obvious that it was intentional. If you cannot find a verbal bridge, try using a more general phrase that will help you subtly shift the focus of the discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These phrases include but are not limited to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n