How to Keep the Conversation Flowing Even If You’re Shy

Beginner | June 3, 2025

✨ 혼자서 기사를 소리 내어 읽거나 튜터를 따라 각 단락을 반복해서 읽으세요. 레벨...

Do you ever say “hello” and then feel stuck on what to say next? You’re not alone! Many people—even professionals—feel nervous or shy in conversations. But there’s good news: you don’t need perfect English or a big personality to keep a conversation going.

Let’s learn how to stay calm, sound confident, and keep the conversation flowing with five simple steps.

Why Conversation Tips for Shy People Matter

If you’re shy or nervous, your brain might go blank after a few words. That’s normal! Many English learners worry about making mistakes or not knowing the right words. But real conversations don’t need to be perfect. They need to feel real and friendly.

Start With a Real Answer

The next time someone says, “How are you?” don’t just say, “I’m fine.” Instead, use a real word and add a reason. Try this:

“I’m a little tired—lots of emails this morning.”
“I’m excited—we have a new project today!”

This makes the conversation more interesting and easier to continue.

Conversation Tips for Shy People: Use the AAA Rule

This simple rule helps you keep talking:

Answer + Add + Ask

A: “How was your weekend?”
B: “It was nice—I went to the park with my kids. How about you?”

You answer, you add a little more, then you ask a similar question. That’s it!

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Yes/no questions are short. Instead, try open-ended ones like:

“What do you usually do after work?”
“What did you like about the meeting?”

These questions invite longer answers and better conversation.

Keep It Super Simple

Don’t worry about sounding smart. Short and clear is best. Say:

“I help customers solve problems.” (Not: “I provide innovative solutions…”)

Simple English builds confidence and connection.

Relax and Have Fun

Smiling and enjoying the moment helps your brain work better! You don’t need to impress anyone. Just be present and friendly. When you feel calm, others do too.

Vocabulary List

Shy (adjective) — Nervous about talking to others.
Example: I feel shy when I meet new people.
Blank (adjective) — Empty or without ideas.
Example: My mind went blank during the meeting.
Add (verb) — To include more information.
Example: I added a short reason to my answer.
Ask (verb) — To say something to get information.
Example: I asked what he liked about the meeting.
Open-ended (adjective) — A question that needs a long answer.
Example: “What do you think about it?” is an open-ended question.
Flow (noun/verb) — To move smoothly without stopping.
Example: The conversation flowed well.
Real (adjective) — Honest, not fake.
Example: I gave a real answer, not just “I’m fine.”
Connect (verb) — To build a relationship or understanding.
Example: We connected through small talk.
Confident (adjective) — Feeling sure of yourself.
Example: I felt confident using my English.
Friendly (adjective) — Kind and easy to talk to.
Example: She is always friendly in meetings.

5 Questions About the Article

What does the AAA Rule stand for?
Why should you avoid saying “I’m fine”?
What kind of questions help a conversation grow?
How can keeping it simple help in conversation?
What happens when you relax and enjoy the moment?

5 Open-Ended Discussion Questions

What makes you feel nervous in conversations?
How do you usually answer, “How are you?”
Can you share a time you had a great small talk?
What question do you often hear at work?
How would you describe your English goals?

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