Share Conversations & Reading the Room-1
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You want to tell your friend about your weekend. When you approach, they are studying quickly, looking at the clock, and barely looking up. : Read the room. What should you do?
Wait until later or briefly ask, “Is this a bad time to talk?” Clues: Studying, checking the time, limited attention.
Your friend had a championship game last night. Today, they're smiling and wearing their team jersey. Use what you know AND read the room to start a conversation.
“How did the championship game go?” Clues: Their smile and jersey suggest they may be comfortable discussing it.
Your friend had an important audition yesterday. You see them today sitting quietly with their head down and headphones on. Should you immediately ask, “Did you make it?” Explain.
Probably not. Their body language suggests they may not want to talk right now. Wait for a better opportunity.
Everyone was joking around at lunch. Then one student shares that their parents are getting divorced. The group becomes quiet. Your friend starts to tell another joke. What could you do?
Don't continue the joking. Acknowledge what the student shared or allow them space to talk.
You're telling a friend about your new job. They lean toward you, nod, smile, and ask, “What do you do there?” What can you infer? What should you do?
They appear interested, so continue the conversation and answer their question.
You're explaining a video game. Your friend initially asked questions, but now they're checking their phone, giving one-word responses, and looking toward the door. What could you say?
“Anyway, I'll tell you more about it later. I'll see you tomorrow.”
Your friend told you they had a difficult chemistry test today. After class, they walk out smiling and say, “That was way better than I expected!” Make a comment AND ask a question.
“That's great! You were worried about that test. What ended up being easier than you expected?”
Your friend's team lost an important game. Your friend is laughing and talking normally with teammates afterward. Should you assume they're upset and say, “You must be devastated”?
No. You could say, “How did the game go?” and let them tell you how they feel.
You're telling a story in a group. Twice, another student leans forward and begins, “Actually—” but you continue talking. What are you missing?
The student is probably trying to contribute. Pause and give them a chance to speak: “Sorry, what were you going to say?”
You and your friend joke about your difficult math teacher when you're alone. The teacher walks over and joins your conversation. Question: Should you continue the same joke?
Probably not. The audience and situation have changed, so the topic or humor may need to change too.
