Starting a conversation with someone new can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re at a networking event, social gathering, or just trying to strike up a conversation with a stranger, there are plenty of ways to break the ice and make a connection. In this article, we’ll explore 15 ways to start a conversation and turn small talk into big connections.
Ask open-ended questions.
Asking open-ended questions is a great way to start a conversation. These are questions that cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.” Instead, they require the person to give a more detailed response. For example, instead of asking “Did you have a good day?” ask “What was the best part of your day today?”
Comment on your surroundings.
If you’re in a new environment, use your surroundings as a conversation starter. Comment on the decor, music, or food. For example, “This place has a great atmosphere. Have you been here before?”
Compliment the person.
A sincere compliment can go a long way in starting a conversation. It shows that you have taken notice of the person and can be a great icebreaker. For example, “That’s a great shirt. Where did you get it?”
Find common ground.
Finding common ground can help establish a connection with the other person. Look for shared interests, experiences, or opinions. For example, “I noticed you were reading a book by my favorite author. Have you read any of their other works?”
Ask for advice.
Asking for advice can be a great conversation starter. It shows that you value the other person’s opinion and can lead to a more in-depth discussion. For example, “I’m looking for a good restaurant in the area. Do you have any recommendations?”
Share a personal experience.
Sharing a personal experience can help establish a connection with the other person. It shows that you are willing to be vulnerable and can lead to a more meaningful conversation. For example, “I had a similar experience when I traveled to Japan. Have you ever been?”
Ask about their interests.
Asking about the other person’s interests can help you find common ground and establish a connection. For example, “I noticed you’re wearing a shirt from a music festival. Are you a big fan of live music?”
Use humour.
Humour can be a great icebreaker and can help put the other person at ease. Use a light hearted joke or comment to start the conversation. For example, “I think we’re the only two people here who haven’t tried the hors d’oeuvres yet. Shall we go investigate?”
Ask about their job.
Asking about the other person’s job can be a good conversation starter. It shows that you are interested in their life and can lead to a more in-depth conversation. For example, “What do you do for a living? Do you enjoy it?”
Share a recent accomplishment.
Sharing a recent accomplishment can be a good conversation starter. It shows that you are proud of your achievements and can lead to a more meaningful conversation. For example, “I just finished a marathon last month. Have you ever done one?”
Ask about their travels.
Asking about the other person’s travels can be a good conversation starter. It shows that you are interested in their experiences and can lead to a more in-depth conversation. For example, “I noticed you have a passport stamp from Thailand. What was your favorite part of the trip?”
Talk about current events.
Talking about current events can be a good conversation starter. It shows that you are knowledgeable about the world around you and can lead to a more thought-provoking conversation. However, be mindful of sensitive or controversial topics and avoid turning the conversation into a debate.
Ask about their family or pets.
Asking about the other person’s family or pets can be a good conversation starter. It shows that you care about their personal life and can lead to a more relaxed conversation. For example, “Do you have any pets? I have a dog that’s always getting into mischief.”
Comment on something they’re wearing.
Commenting on something the other person is wearing can be a good conversation starter. It shows that you are observant and can lead to a more casual conversation. For example, “That’s a cool necklace. Does it have any special meaning?”
Offer a genuine greeting.
A simple, genuine greeting can be a good conversation starter. Whether it’s a smile, a handshake, or a wave, acknowledging the other person’s presence can make them feel welcome and open to conversation. For example, “Hi, my name is Sarah. It’s nice to meet you.”
Final thoughts.
In conclusion, starting a conversation doesn’t have to be daunting. With these 15 ways to start a conversation, you can make connections with people from all walks of life. Remember to be genuine, open-minded, and respectful, and you’ll be on your way to turning small talk into big connections.