For this reason, it’s not surprising that Franklin encouraged individuals to “admire little” in a conversation. Avoid Playing Comedian – Franklin’s fourth suggestion for good conversationalists is “never to pretend to wit,” implying that those who think too much of their attempts at humor may definitely elicit laughter… but more at themselves instead of their jokes. Stay Focused – “To hearken to what is said, and to answer to the purpose” is Franklin’s last conversational admonition.