Navigating a discussion can be tricky, especially when you’re not fully prepared. But smart people have a knack for making it look effortless. They use subtle tricks to bluff their way through any conversation without revealing their lack of knowledge.

This isn’t about being dishonest, rather it’s about maintaining composure and confidence in all situations. It’s about knowing how to steer the conversation and create the illusion of expertise.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the clever tricks that intelligent individuals use to masterfully weave through any discussion. These tips aren’t about manipulation, but about quick thinking and adaptability. Here’s how the savvy do it.

1) Use the power of diversion

We all find ourselves in situations where we’re asked a question we simply don’t have an answer to. It’s an awkward moment, but smart people know how to handle it.

They use a subtle trick called diversion. The idea is to gently steer the conversation away from the uncomfortable question and towards a related topic that they are more comfortable discussing.

This isn’t about evading the question or being deceptive, but rather about maintaining the flow of the conversation while avoiding a potential pitfall.

For instance, if you’re asked about a recent political event you’re not aware of, you might divert to a broader topic about politics that you have more knowledge in.

The key here is to do this smoothly, so it doesn’t come off as dodging the question. You have to be subtle and seamless in your transition.

Remember, this is not about fooling someone but keeping the discussion engaging and productive. And as always, honesty is the best policy. If you really don’t know something, it’s perfectly okay to admit it.

2) Leverage the power of silence

A trick I’ve personally found useful in many discussions is the strategic use of silence. It might sound counterintuitive, but trust me, the power of silence is often underestimated.

I remember being in a meeting once where I was asked about a project I wasn’t directly involved in. I didn’t have a concrete answer and it could have put me in an awkward position. But instead of trying to fill the silence with words, I paused.

In that moment of silence, something interesting happened. The person who asked the question started elaborating more on the subject. They filled in the details, and in doing so, they inadvertently provided me with the information I needed to contribute to the discussion.

Silence can make people uncomfortable, and often, they’ll rush to fill it. This can buy you time and sometimes, even provide you with the information you need. It’s a subtle trick, but when used wisely, it can be incredibly effective.

3) Utilize open-ended questions

Open-ended questions are a powerful tool in any discussion. They invite the other person to share more information, their thoughts, or their opinions. This not only keeps the conversation going but also gives you valuable insights.

Consider this: researchers at Harvard University found that asking open-ended questions fosters more engagement and builds better relationships. It’s a simple and subtle trick that can keep the conversation flowing even when you’re not entirely sure about the topic at hand.

For instance, instead of asking, “Did you like the movie?”, which can be answered with a simple yes or no, ask, “What did you think about the movie?” This encourages the other person to share more and gives you time to gather your thoughts or learn more about the topic.

4) Display empathy and understanding

One of the most effective ways to navigate any discussion is by displaying empathy and understanding. This doesn’t mean you have to agree with everything the other person says, but showing that you respect their perspective can take the conversation a long way.

Empathy allows you to connect on a deeper level and helps build trust. When people feel understood, they are more likely to open up and share more information.

For example, you can say things like, “I can understand why you’d feel that way,” or, “That’s an interesting perspective, I hadn’t thought of it like that.” These phrases show that you’re listening and valuing their input, even if your knowledge on the subject is limited.

Remember, discussions aren’t just about sharing your own thoughts, but also about understanding others. And sometimes, this understanding can be the best bluff of all.

5) Share relevant experiences

There’s a unique authenticity that comes from sharing our own experiences. Even in discussions where we may not be the most knowledgeable, our personal experiences can often bridge that gap.

Sharing an experience that’s relevant to the topic at hand can add depth to the conversation and also create an emotional connection with the other participants. It shows that you’re not just interested in the topic but also invested in it on a personal level.

For instance, if you’re discussing climate change and you don’t know all the scientific data, you might share a heartfelt story about how you witnessed its effects during a trip to the beach where you saw washed-up plastic waste.

Your story may not contain all the facts about climate change, but it shows your personal engagement with the issue. This can often resonate more with people than dry facts and figures, making it a powerful tool for navigating any discussion.

6) Admit when you don’t know

There was a time when I assumed that in order to be part of a discussion, I needed to know everything about the topic at hand. But I quickly learned that this was not only unrealistic but also unnecessary.

Admitting that you don’t know something can actually be a powerful tool in any conversation. It shows humility and honesty, traits that people generally respect. Plus, it opens up an opportunity for learning.

So, if you find yourself in a discussion about a topic you’re not familiar with, don’t shy away from admitting it. You might say something like, “I’m not too familiar with that, could you tell me more?” This invites the other person to share their knowledge and keeps the conversation flowing.

In my experience, people appreciate authenticity more than a show of faux expertise. It’s a subtle trick that creates a space for genuine interaction and learning.

7) Echo back what you’ve heard

In the midst of a discussion, especially one where you’re not the expert, it’s important to show that you’re actively listening. One effective way to do this is by echoing back what you’ve heard.

This doesn’t mean simply repeating what has been said, but summarizing it in your own words. By doing this, you’re showing that you’re engaged and trying to understand the topic, even if you don’t have much prior knowledge about it.

For example, if someone explains a complex process to you, you might respond with, “So, if I understood correctly, what you’re saying is…” and then give a brief summary of their point.

This approach not only demonstrates that you’re an active participant in the conversation but also gives you a chance to clarify anything that may be unclear. It’s a win-win situation for any discussion.

8) Stay curious and open-minded

If there’s one thing you should remember when you’re navigating a discussion, it’s the value of staying curious and open-minded. Whether you’re well-versed in the topic or bluffing your way through, maintaining a genuine interest and openness to learn can make a significant difference.

Instead of trying to dominate the conversation with your opinion, ask questions, show interest in others’ views, and be willing to learn something new. This attitude not only enriches your understanding but also makes you a more engaging conversation partner.

Remember, every discussion is an opportunity for learning and growth. So stay curious, ask questions, and embrace the journey of discovery.

Final thought: It’s all about the art of conversation

While we’ve discussed various subtle tricks to bluff your way through any discussion, it’s important to remember that at the heart of it all is the art of conversation.

A good conversation isn’t just about sharing information or winning an argument, it’s about understanding, connection, and mutual respect. It’s about being present, listening intently, and responding thoughtfully.

These tricks we’ve shared aren’t about deceit or manipulation. They’re about navigating a discussion with grace and composure, even when you’re not the expert in the room.

As the famed American journalist Celeste Headlee once said, “Don’t pontificate. Assume that you have something to learn.”

And that’s perhaps the most important trick of all – embracing every conversation as an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. Because ultimately, isn’t that what all discussions should be about?