Making conversation can be one of the most challenging types of speaking to master in any language. This can be particularly true with people in a position of authority, such as a faculty advisor, department chair, work supervisor, or future employer. In this workshop, we will practice skills and strategies to effectively interact with powerful people, including turn-taking strategies, active listening, and sources for sample conversations. We will consider how to seem friendly and confident at a job interview or competent and insightful in a research group meeting. Come ready to practice with one another and to identify effective ways to practice on your own.