We’re all capable of the occasional social blunder. Of course, some of us seem more prone to it than others, but even the savviest of men aren’t impervious to such gaffes.

With some good judgment, a little maturity and a look at the most common conversation mistakes, perhaps we’ll finally find the etiquette we always dreamed of. If not, there’s always continuing the lifestyle of crude jokes, public debauchery and politically incorrect remarks.

• Changing the topic to suit your own interests

Everyone has their own conversation topics of choice -- work, office gossip or early 20th century smelting techniques. There’s nothing wrong with having these topical preferences, just don’t force them onto others.

• Checking your phone

Technology has become a distraction for many and, of course, the phone is the worst offender. It’s an extension of you; it’s your life; you couldn’t live without it. We know. But 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

• 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. Your boss sees the PG version, your friends see the R version and, if you’re lucky, you have the occasional X-rated with the wife. But no matter what, you should always be tailoring the act for the audience.

• 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, you need to do your best to suppress this competitive edge. Conversation is not a competition.

• 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, like a lethargic king on his throne, you’ll simply remain seated while the servant-like acquaintance 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. But seriously, stand up.

• Cursing

Who doesn’t love a four-letter word? We all do. But conversations aren’t meant to sound like an Andrew Dice Clay set at the Improv. The occasional use of profanity is certainly acceptable in the right situation.Being too heavy with swearing is always a mistake when it comes to conversation.

• Looking over their shoulder

Nothing is more disrespectful then when your eyes drift off, over the shoulder of your speaking companion, as if looking for a better option. Even if Jeffrey Dahmer is approaching with a machete and a lobster bib, the eyes should remain focused. Hang in there and show some respect.

• Not introducing the participants

It’s a pretty tasteless move to let your companion sit idle in a conversation without the correct introduction. Although it’s many times remedied with a “Oh, I’m sorry, this is...” the repeated offense is inexcusable. If it’s a friend who doesn’t get the introduction it’s extremely unfortunate.

• Monopolizing the conversation

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not enjoyable to hear one person rant through an entire one-sided conversation. You have to pass the mic. Even if you have zero respect for what might be heard on the other side, if they’re completely incapable of producing a comment worth listening to, you have to pass the mic. It’s a painful practice for all involved. At least look to settle for a duopoly. 

• 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. Once that thought is formulated, it blasts right out. Listen. Pretend as though the person talking has a 10% chance at producing a fairly cohesive point. Now imagine how disappointed you’ll be if you miss it. Protect yourself, let them finish, then start pontificating.