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Just because there is a pause in the conversation doesn't mean it has to be awkward. Perhaps the person is thinking before responding or maybe there is simply a natural pause. Take this opportunity to connect in other ways such as by making eye contact or just being present with the person. Silence doesn't have to be awkward. It can be filled in other ways besides words. For example, if someone has shared something difficult with you, perhaps a family member is ill, instead of trying to find the right words, give them a hug. This shows that you care and can say even more than words. Sharing silence with someone when they don't have anything else to say, is also a good way to allow them space for an emotional response. There is generally something that caused the awkward silence. If you recognize the cause, you can more easily fill the silence. Maybe someone said something that made the other party uncomfortable. Maybe you have vastly different views about something and are avoiding conflict. Maybe you just don't have that much in common to talk about. Depending on the situation, you can respond accordingly and move forward. If you said something that made the other person uncomfortable, you can simply apologize by saying something like, "I'm sorry, that was out of place." Then move the conversation in a new direction. If you don't have much in common with the other person and have exhausted your shared interests, the silence might be telling you that it's time to leave. Excuse yourself gracefully by saying something such as, "I have to go drive Donny to football now. Take care." This works best when the conversation has been halted by somebody saying something embarrassing, rude, or untimely. For example, if you are going on and on about how much you hate chess and the other person then says, "Oh, it's my favorite game. I'm actually a grandmaster." You could say something like, "Well I guess we won't be chess partners anytime soon!" Then change the subject to an area of common ground. You could ask what other games they like. Or if you're talking with a friend and telling them about your great date last night, and they respond with the date they're having tonight, and you discover that you're both dating the same person, the silence will be so thick you could cut it with a knife. Simply say "Awkward!" in a funny voice to diffuse the tension. If you decide you enjoy the person you're talking with, but for whatever reason the conversation has stalled, suggest something you can do together. For example, if you're at a party it could be as simple as becoming the ad hoc greeting committee for new arrivals, or you could volunteer to be the bartenders for a little while. Maybe even create a signature cocktail and name it after the two of you! If you are on a date or one-on-one with someone, suggest a walk, or a snowball fight, or some other activity you can both do at the moment. Focusing on something other than your conversation partner is a sure way to make them uncomfortable and add to the awkwardness. For example, don't take out your phone and start checking for messages. Not only will they feel unimportant, but they might even leave! Find productive ways to deal with silence that involve both of you. If you really feel the need to look at your phone, you can involve the other person by showing them a short video clip or sharing a song with them. This can spark a new conversation. If conversation is not happening for whatever reason and you're in a situation that permits, smile and say "Please excuse me," and walk away. Find a friend to talk to or simply walk outside and get some fresh air. If you're on a date and simply aren't connecting with the person, call it a night. Say something like, "Well, I really should get going. I have a lot I need to get done tonight, but thanks for dinner."
Accept the silence. Identify the source. Acknowledge the moment. Find an activity. Avoid awkward behaviors. Know when to quit.