Being influential and having great conversations can seem daunting for those who are shy or used to feeling like an outsider. But it doesn't have to be. Below are some handy tips from experts on that can help you to break the ice and come across as a more interesting person:

Stay Positive

The #1 tip for never boring anyone comes from Scott Adams: Be brief, be positive. Everyone loves hanging around someone who seems always to the point and upbeat.

Is anyone asking you questions about what you’re saying? If not, maybe it’s time to end the story or ask the other person a question to avoid the conversation from dying down.

Be A Good Listener

The reason why people love to talk about themselves is that it triggers the same sensation of pleasure in the brain the same way as food or money. Plus, you'll make an excellent impression without having to do all the work.

Talk About The Other Person’s Interests

Weather, politics, etc. While these topics might be generically interesting, you'll make more of an impression on people by asking things like what they've been up to or what their hobbies are. And if you happen to know a little more about the subject, it'll be easier to bond with your audience. But if you don’t, follow the second rule by asking them to explain so they talk about something they love.

Have Three Good Stories

Always have three good stories on hand that reliably entertain, inform or engage. Here's a handy tip from Scott Adams: People are generally more interested in stories about people rather than things because human behavior is fascinating. If you're nervous, rehearse your stories in front of a mirror before telling them in front of an audience.

Don’t Forget Charisma

Being engaging is one thing, but you don't want to come across as too robotic either. Words only account for 7% of what gets conveyed, while the rest counts on other things like voice tone and body language are far more important. So Laugh. Smile. Be passionate. Gesture. And always modulate your voice

Be Somewhere Interesting

Research shows excitement from any source is often associated with the person you’re with — even if they’re not the cause of it. According to MIT Behavioral Economist Dan Ariely, it might have something to do with “misattribution of emotions”:
“Sometimes we have an emotion and we don’t know where it’s coming from, so we kind of stick it on something that seems sensible.”

Most Importantly: Live An Interesting Life

The best and most reliable way to appear interesting is to live an interesting life. As Don Quixote once said, "If you want to be a knight, act like a knight." By broadening your horizons, you'll be able to tackle all sorts of topics.

The friends you spend time can also dramatically affect your behavior. If possible, trying hanging out more with interesting people beyond your social circle. You'll never know what kind stories they'll be willing to share with you.