It isn't about being perfect, articulate, or factual (which can be a put off), but about opening a channel of communication so that the other person wants to understand what you have to say.

Being excited, enthusiastic and interested in what you have to say rubs off on others. Even if your core topic is dull, you can connect it with something interesting.

Rambling, ranting and lecturing only makes others wish the conversation was over yesterday.

Laughing together is a beautiful way of connecting, and helps people remember what is being discussed.