Making casual conversation doesn't come naturally for a lot of folks. In fact, the idea of talking to a stranger at a cocktail party makes some want to hide behind the ferns.

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But small talk can lead to big things.

You might meet a new client, stumble on your next roommate or meet your future Mr. or Ms. Right. You just never know.

So how do you cultivate a more extroverted you? We all hope that the other person will assume the burden of a conversation. But master conversationalist and "The Fine Art of Small Talk" author Debra Fine says that it's up to you to take on the responsibility of making others feel comfortable.

Here are a few pointers to get you talking:

The polite introduction: When you're introducing people — or if you're introducing yourself — say names slowly and offer information. "This is Larry, he just got a new job as an urban planner here in town." Or you can point out common interests: "Both of you are Red Sox fans."

What was her name again? She said her name and it flew out of your brain a nanosecond later. It will do you no good to forget the name of the person you're talking to. So open your ears and really listen. One trick is to repeat the name of the person a few times.

Be prepared: Formulate a few questions that will generate interest. For example, think about the day's current events. Make sure to keep up-to-date with the daily paper or tune in to your radio station and study up — be it earthquakes, hurricanes, elections or scandals.

Make eye contact: Look the person you are speaking to in the eye. This is something Bill Clinton practices routinely; he makes the person he's speaking to feel as though he, or she, is the only one in the room. When we listen to every word and digest everything that's said, it makes for more meaningful conversation.

Something to work with: Don't give short answers. If a person asks about your occupation, don't say "sales" and leave it at that. Give him something to work with. Let him know what area of sales you work in and, if you travel, where you have visited recently.

Now let's talk about me! Asking a person what he likes to do for fun can be a big door-opener — that's because people love to talk about themselves. Show an interest in their interests and recreational activities. Ask leading questions: If the person went to an exhibit, ask what she liked most and why.

Want to put these tips into practice? Visit one of TRUE's chat rooms and get something started!

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