[justforfun19713]

Here is another tip: Literally repeat the last word or phrase she (or her friends if she is in a group) says. Most girls like to hear themselves talk and this keeps them going... Do so with a 'bit of uptick / verbal fry in your voice. Takes a 'bit of practice so as not to be too obvious about it, but works like a charm.

Also too, think about the last few new people you have met who you found genuinely interesting to talk to, or perhaps engaging from a conversational perspective. Did you do most of the talking or did they? By and large you will find that they kept you talking. Observe and try to emulate what they do.

Finally, learn how to do extemporaneous speaking. Good sources on this are Toastmasters or a Dale Carnegie course. Chances are your employer may pay for it... In addition to a great venue to meet interesting people, I would argue that any role (job) that requires interaction with other human beings will benefit.