We’re all capable of the occasional social blunder, but just because these conversation etiquette mistakes happen across the board doesn’t mean they can’t be avoided. All it takes is good judgment, a little maturity and a look at the most common conversation mistakes.

No.10 – Changing the topic to suit your own interests

Everyone has their own conversation topics of choice, and there is nothing wrong with having topical preferences, just don’t force them onto others. Let the conversation progress naturally; contribute where relevant and on-topic.

No.9 – Checking your phone

Technology has become a distraction for many and, of course, the phone is the worst offender. Be aware of this conversation etiquette mistake. No matter how important the text, the e-mail or the brick breaker score may be, checking your phone during a conversation is one of the most insulting gestures.

No.8 – Not knowing your audience

Know your audience. You can’t hide behind “I am who I am, no matter who I’m talking to.” Certain people require a certain type of conversation. For example, remember to keep personal matters away from the office conversations, especially in conversations with your boss. No matter what, you should always be tailoring the act for the audience.

No.7 – One-upmanship

It’s not only a conversation etiquette mistake, it’s an alienating trait to exercise. Even if you feel the urge to vocalize your greatness in comparison to others, do your best to suppress this competitive edge. Conversation is not a competition. You don’t have to one-up the other person’s story, their good news, or their time to shine in the conversation spotlight. You’ll have yours — don’t worry.

No.6 – Talking from your seat

Time and time again you’ll be at a restaurant, and that friendly acquaintance will come by for the standard greeting. Often, people simply remain seated while an acquaintance of theirs comes by and asks about the family. It’s awkward, it’s rude and it can be easily avoided. Just get up. Stand from your seat, shake a hand, pat the back, and have a short and friendly conversation.

No.5 – Cursing

Who doesn’t know a four-letter word? We all do. The occasional use of profanity is certainly acceptable in the right situation, but in many situations, it can greatly hurt other people’s perception of you. In the work environment, being too heavy with swearing is always a mistake when it comes to conversation. Get a thesaurus; find alternate expletives.

No.4 – Looking over their shoulder

Nothing is more disrespectful than your eyes drifting off over the shoulder of your speaking companion, as if looking for a better option. Although it can be tough to stay engaged throughout the whole conversation, hang in there and show respect.

No.3 – Not introducing the participants

It’s a pretty tasteless move to let your companion sit idle in a conversation without the correct introduction. Although the mistake in many times is remedied with an “Oh, I’m sorry, this is…” the repeated offense is inexcusable.

No.2 – Monopolizing the conversation

No conversation is enjoyable to hear one person rant through an entire one-sided conversation. You have to pass the mike — even if you have zero respect for what might be heard on the other side. Don’t monopolize the conversation — it’s one of the most common conversation etiquette mistakes and it’s a painful practice for all involved.

No.1 – Interrupting

It’s the No. 1 conversation etiquette mistake, committed by everybody at one time or another. It’s unbearable for the one getting cut off and it shows the interrupter truly has no interest in hearing what the other party has to say. The easiest way to avoid it is simple: just listen. Many substitute the listening portion of a conversation with the “what should I say next?” portion, but instead just listen and it will avoid this most common mistake.