The art of conversation

There are countries, like Japan, where everyone will remain silent during a meal. In Europe, however, the conversation is one of the key “essences” of the reception.

Everything should be organized as to stimulate the conversation going and foster the necessary atmosphere for its smooth development. The conversation element should be considered even before the selection of the guests. Invite people from different professions to create a pleasant atmosphere and provide for a broad exchange of information. It is advisable not to seat spouses next to each other. The place of each guest at the table is of crucial importance. Alternate genders. These are the two key rules in preparing a table plan. Then come the importance and the social status of the guests.

To facilitate conversation, introduce the guests to one another, while mentioning their professions: “Mr. Georgiev, a doctor“. This will also help avoid embarrassment if someone starts telling unpleasant stories or offensive anecdotes for a given profession. Such incidents will not serve as good basis for the development of the talk. On the other hand, announcing your guests’ professions may lead to a spontaneous discussion.

The hostess should take care of the good atmosphere. She should have several potential conversation starters in mind to keep the conversation going or to change the discussion if someone from the guests steers into controversial topics (such as religion and sex…).

What makes the table conversation so important is it represents perfect communication. Everyone should participate. A guest, who does not speak at all, behaves totally inappropriate.

Keep your voice down, do not contradict your interlocutors, do not stress on the mistakes or on the incorrectness of the facts the others share. A reasonable tactic would be to let your interlocutors stand out.

Choose topics in such a way as to no one feels uncomfortable or offended and which not lead to polemics

Observe the order of precedence. For example, the guest of highest social status should begin the discussion and set its direction.

If the reception is the cult of savoir-vivre, then no doubt the conversation is the central ritual of this “ceremony”.

Eva Kouvandjieva Napoleone
Institut Villa Pierrefeu, Montreux, Switzerland