
Never be left speechless again.
Like a parrot, simply repeat the last few words your conversation partner says. That puts the ball right back in his/ her court, and then all you need to do is listen.
Parroting is also a can opener to pry open people's real feelings. Star salesperson use it to get to their prospect's emotional objections, which they often don't even articulate to themselves.
A: Well, I'm not sure if this car is right for me.
B: Right for you?
A: Well, er, yeah. I'm not sure if it fits my personality.
B: Fits your personality?
A: You know, maybe I need something a little more sporty.
B: Well, those cars over there looks more sporty.
An hour later, A had pocketed a fat commision.