I actually make light of the awkward silence, usually. If you're even slightly funny you can make a comment that will make the silence humorous.
Maybe a little "You know, everytime theres an awkward silence, _____________"
You can then fill that in with any of the following:
an angel gets thrown down a flight of steps
God kills a puppy
an American Idol contestant is born
Satan gets a little stronger
Etc.
9 out of 10 times, the other person is thinking the same thing you are, and will only laugh if you mention the silence. I have found this 100% more effective than groping for something to talk about, and winding up paddling myself out in to a conversation that winds up sounding crazy.
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