7 Ways to Make It Comfortable for Anyone to Talk to You

There are people with whom conversations flow easily, as if you’ve known each other for a lifetime. They genuinely care about your thoughts, share their own, and you feel right at home in their company.

There are people with whom conversations flow easily, as if you’ve known each other for a lifetime. They genuinely care about your thoughts, share their own, and you feel right at home in their company. Want to become that person? It’s simple! Follow these few easy tips that will make communicating with you more comfortable and enjoyable for others.

Aim to be on the same level as your conversation partner

One of the most effective ways to be more approachable in conversation is to blend in. For example, if your partner is sitting, don’t stand in front of them as if you’re a higher authority. Move closer, sit next to them. If you’re talking to a child, it’s better to squat down to their level. This will create an effect of equality and ease the tension, making the conversation lighter and more relaxed.

Find common interests

Finding common ground is not just about conversation topics, but also about points of connection. Music, movies, books — these are universal discussion themes. Even if your tastes differ greatly, it won’t be a problem. These topics can deepen the conversation, and you and your partner can exchange favorite films or recipes, opening the door for a more meaningful discussion.

Use humor, but in moderation

Humor is a powerful tool for creating a comfortable atmosphere, but balance is key. A light, unobtrusive joke will help relax your conversation partner. Funny stories from your life can build trust and show that you’re open to communication. However, avoid sarcasm or self-deprecating humor, especially with people you hardly know. This will leave the impression that you’re friendly and confident.

Assess your partner's mood and work with it

We all have different moods. If you feel your conversation partner isn’t very talkative but seems interested in what you’re saying, don’t jump to the conclusion that they’re not interested — just talk more. It’s possible they find it hard to get a word in, and they’ll appreciate your help. If your partner is withdrawn, compliment them or mention that you enjoyed their story or some action of theirs. This will show your sincerity and set the tone for a trusting conversation.

Use open body language

Non-verbal signals are just as important as words. If you cross your arms or lean too close, your conversation partner might feel uncomfortable. So, use open gestures: turn your palms up, relax your shoulders, sit straight but not stiff. If you’re unsure how to act, just observe your partner and try to "mirror" their posture later. This unconscious gesture will create a sense of mutuality and closeness.

Listen more than you speak

One of the secrets to making communication comfortable for others is the ability to listen. Let your conversation partner take center stage in the conversation and don’t try to outshine them with your own stories. You might be an expert in a field, but if you draw too much attention to yourself, the other person might not appreciate it. Let them share what’s on their mind, and you just listen — this will help you make a great first impression and spark genuine interest.

Use words of encouragement

Compliments are nice, but they can be misinterpreted, especially when they concern appearance or personal traits. It’s better to use words of encouragement and praise for actions, efforts, or achievements. For example, if a colleague is drawing, praise their skill. If someone lifted something heavy, note their strength. Words like "impressive" or "you did an amazing job" help people feel valued and noticed without creating awkwardness.