Even the best of friends can experience awkward moments. Maybe you've all gathered for a party at your house and suddenly no one has anything to say, or someone's just said something pretty strange and no one knows how to respond. Whatever the case may be, there are many ways to respond to silence that can help alleviate any awkwardness (or at least make things a little less unbearable).

1

Prepare some conversation topics ahead of time.

  1. That way you’ll have things to talk about whenever the conversation lulls. Maybe you just watched a horror film that your friends might want to hear about or you read something in the news that seems worth discussing. Thinking of some potential conversation topics in advance can come in handy when you're trying to fill an awkward silence.[1]
    • If the conversation dies down, try something like, "I just read that a new pizza place is opening up down the street. Have ya'll heard anything about that?" or "I just watched Scream for the first time! Have any of you seen it?"
    • Stay away from controversial subjects like politics or religion.[2]
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3

Listen to your friends when they talk.

  1. Make sure you're not just planning what you want to say next. Think of a conversation as a collaboration with someone. You've got to really listen to what they have to say to learn new things about that person and come up with a thoughtful response. It's also a great opportunity to listen for potential conversation topics if you find yourself stuck in awkward silence.[4]
    • Nod along while someone is talking to help you concentrate on what they're saying. This also helps encourage your friend to keep talking!
    • Turn your phone on silent and keep it in your purse or pocket. It's hard to really listen when you're checking your phone or getting text alerts constantly.
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4

Look for cues in the room for good conversation starters.

  1. Notice your friend's clothes, the decor in the room, and other details. These can all be great conversation starters if you've run out of things to say. You can compliment your friend's cool sweater or ask them where they got their new backpack. Alternatively, you could say something about the song that's playing on the radio or take note of your friend's brand new stereo. Commenting on something like that can give the conversation a fresh start, and others can chime in on how they feel, too.[5]
    • Say something like, "I like your Ramones t-shirt, Rob. Do you have a favorite album of theirs?"
5

Change the subject.

8

Let your friends do some of the talking, too.

  1. It's not your responsibility to fill every silence. Your friends can help come up with new things to talk about as well! Relax and don't put too much pressure on yourself to fill every awkward silence. If things are a little quiet, wait for your friends to speak before rushing to talk.[9]
    • Think of the conversation like taking turns—everyone should get an equal chance to share.[10] If you brought up a new subject after the last lull, give someone else a chance to speak next time a quiet moment arises.
9

Try your best to be confident.

  1. Adopt confident body language. This helps you feel more comfortable with yourself, and it makes you seem more approachable in conversation. Hold your head high and stand or sit up straight as you speak.[11] This newfound confidence will help you handle awkward situations with ease, and not overthink or feel insecure every time a moment of silence strikes.
    • Feeling more confident will help you put yourself out there if it falls on you to change the subject or ask questions. Trying out these methods if you're feeling insecure can be pretty difficult, and it may not diffuse the awkwardness.[12]
    • If you find yourself feeling awkward when someone gives you a compliment, say, "Thank you!" as graciously as possible—don't just let the moment turn into an awkward silence.[13]
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About This Article

Lynda Jean
Co-authored by:
Certified Image Consultant
This article was co-authored by Lynda Jean and by wikiHow staff writer, Madeleine Criglow. Lynda Jean is an Image Consultant and the Owner of Lynda Jean Image Consulting. With over 15 years of experience, Lynda specializes in color and body/style analysis, wardrobe audits, personal shopping, social and professional etiquette, and personal and business branding. She works with clients to enhance their image, self-esteem, behavior, and communication to facilitate their social and career goals. Lynda holds Bachelor degrees in Sociology and Social Work, a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work, and a Certified Image Consultant (CIC) certification. She studied Image Consulting at the International Image Institute and the International Academy of Fashion and Technology in Toronto, Canada. Lynda has taught Image Consulting courses at George Brown College in Toronto, Canada. She is the co-author of the book, “Business Success With Ease,” where she shares her knowledge about, ‘The Power of Professional Etiquette.’ This article has been viewed 40,108 times.
64 votes - 88%
Co-authors: 9
Updated: June 28, 2021
Views: 40,108
Categories: Friends
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