A Simple Tip to Help Your Teen Build Confidence in Conversations

Let’s face it: navigating social conversations can be tough for teens, especially those who are introverted or shy. Whether it's an awkward pause during a chat at their co-op, a virtual conversation with a friend, or even a quick interaction at the grocery store, many teens struggle with feeling comfortable in conversations. This is completely normal, especially after the social disruptions caused by COVID, which made many of us—even adults—more introverted.

The good news? There’s a simple strategy that can help your teen overcome these awkward moments and build more confidence in social settings. This easy-to-remember three-step formula will help them handle any conversation, whether in person or virtually.

1. Pause

When your teen feels that awkward silence creeping in, the first step is to pause. It sounds simple, but taking a brief moment to stop and collect their thoughts can make a huge difference. This pause helps them avoid rushing into a response or feeling pressured to say something, allowing their mind to reset and focus on the conversation again.

2. Breathe

Once they’ve paused, the next step is to take a deep breath. Breathing deeply helps reduce anxiety and clears the mind, allowing your teen to feel more centered and calm. You don’t need to hyperventilate or make a show of it—just a few deep, calm breaths to reset.

At Adulting University, we understand the importance of teaching emotional regulation techniques like this for building confidence and emotional intelligence. Learning how to calm themselves in the midst of social stress is an invaluable life skill that helps teens navigate all kinds of situations, both personal and professional.

3. Ask a Question

The final step is to ask a question. When the conversation feels like it’s stalling, asking a thoughtful question shifts the focus back to the other person. This takes the pressure off your teen and keeps the conversation flowing smoothly. It could be as simple as, “What’s your favorite game to play?” or “How did you feel when that happened?”

By asking questions, your teen not only takes the pressure off themselves, but they also get to know the other person better. The more your teen learns about others, the easier it becomes to connect on common interests, and before they know it, they’re talking comfortably and confidently.

Why This Matters

Helping your teen feel confident in conversations is an essential life skill that will serve them well throughout their lives. Whether they’re engaging in casual chats with friends, participating in classroom discussions, or eventually networking in a professional setting, learning how to navigate these interactions with confidence is key to building meaningful relationships and fostering emotional intelligence.

At Adulting University, we prioritize social skills and confidence-building in our Virtual Co-op. We help teens who are shy or introverted build their emotional intelligence and strengthen their communication skills, all while connecting with like-minded peers in a safe, supportive environment.

If you’re interested in helping your teen develop these valuable skills in a structured and engaging way, check out our Virtual Co-op and learn how we can support your teen's growth. Visit here for more information.