Have you ever noticed that women are frequently stereotyped as being more talkative of than men? Maybe it’s just my first-born traits coming out, but being talkative is something that holds true for this woman, anyway.

Well, whether or not women are innately talkative, one thing is sure: the conversation is a very powerful tool we can use to build our careers. Because highly successful people know how to use conversations to build relationships. And they make their relationships work for them, building fabulous careers from their wide-stretching networks.

That's why you need to be a conversation starter. And this goes beyond the surface of simply being talkative. It means two things, really:

1. Start meaningful conversations. Whether with groups or individuals, at planned or accidental meetings, in person or online.

2. Be a subject of other people's conversations. In other words, be worth talking about when you're not around, even when you’re not involved. Be the person other people bring up, the one they recommend or bring on board.

These two things can really put your career in high gear. So, what can you do to achieve both these goals even if you’re not a natural-born conversationalist?

To start conversations you really just need a few things: 

1. Something to say.
2. Confidence.

To be worth talking about, you essentially need the same things, just in a little different packaging.

1. Great ideas.
2. A personality worth talking about.

In the end, the beauty of being a conversation starter, whether in person or online, is that great conversationalists are also the type of people that others will bring up in conversation later on. People love talking about great storytellers, people with charisma, intellectuals, people with unique ideas, those who are outgoing or friendly.

But wait. Here’s a tidbit for those who have the “never met a stranger” thing going for them and could have a “conversation” with a bamboo plant: To become a highly effective conversation starter, you also need to understand when to stop talking and listen to what those around you have to say. The point is to start conversations, not to dominate them As one of my readers pointed out, the art of listening is not to be underestimated. So, if you find yourself talking ninety-to-nothing with everyone you meet, don’t assume you are a great conversationalist. Learn how to start a conversation and then let it grow beyond your thoughts and opinions, and chances are, your horizons will grow.

The truth is, we could all use a little refining when it comes to conversation. So, go ahead. Polish up. Summon your inner confidence and speak up more, or learn to discern when it’s time to quiet yourself down. It’s worth the effort to become the best conversationalist you can be.

Because when people talk with you and about you, great things can happen.

Especially if you have something spectacular to say. Doors may open, opportunities arise, your network grow. And who knows where you may end up.

So go ahead, start talking. 

Check out what else Tiffany Monhollon is talking about at her blog, littleredsuit.com.