For example, you may say, “Hi, my name is John. It’s nice to meet you. ” You don’t need to introduce yourself if you just want to have a casual conversation, but it will help make people more receptive to you.
For example, if you’re at a party, you may say, “This music is really cool! Do you like it?” or, “Have you tried the food yet? It’s really delicious. ” Ending with a question encourages the other person to respond and start a conversation. If the other person is shy or insecure, taking the lead and opening yourself up to them can help put them at ease. [3] X Expert Source Patrick MuñozVoice & Speech Coach Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
You may say something like, “That dress looks really nice. Where did you get it?” or, “You have a good sense of style. How do you find outfits to wear?” Use open-ended questions as much as you can so the conversation doesn’t end with “yes” or “no. ” Avoid bringing up someone’s appearance since it could make them uncomfortable and they may not respond well to it.
For example, you may say, “This is my first time at this cafe. Have you tried anything here?” or, “I wish the sun would come out today. When’s the last time it wasn’t cloudy. ” Have a sense of humor when you’re having your conversation. It will make others feel engaged and make your chat more enjoyable.
Be sure to answer any questions if they ask about your job or education as well. Show genuine interest in their job, even if it doesn’t sound the most exciting to you. Use it as an opportunity to learn more about the person and the subject. Asking people a few questions about themselves can help them feel valued and respected. [8] X Expert Source Patrick MuñozVoice & Speech Coach Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
For example, you may say something like, “Oh, I’ve never tried woodworking. What’s the best thing to do for a beginner?” Make sure you don’t talk over the other person or talk only about your hobbies. Ask questions about what the other person enjoys so you can have a good back-and-forth dialogue.
For example, you could say, “Have you seen the newest Star Wars movie? What did you think of the ending?” or, “What music do you like to listen to? Do you have a favorite artist I should check out?” Even if you disagree with their opinions, stay positive and say something like, “Oh, I never thought of it that way, but I understand your point. ” That way, the other person will still feel engaged with the subject rather than being shot down. If you don’t know what the other person is talking about, ask them to clarify or explain what happens so you can get a better understanding of it. It’s okay to say “I don’t know,” if you’re unfamiliar with media they’re discussing.
For example, you may say something like, “Where are you originally from? Did you like it there?” or, “What did you want to be when you grew up?” Strangers may find it odd if you ask too much about their personal life right when you meet them. Only ask deeper questions if you both feel comfortable responding to them. Never try to “one-up” the person or try to impress them, since it may make them uncomfortable and want to leave the conversation.
For example, you may say something like, “Did you hear about the new music app that just came out? I saw it on the news. ”
When they end their thought, briefly restate something they said so they know you were paying attention to them. For example, if they mentioned getting a new vehicle, you can ask, “What kind of car did you end up getting? Does it drive well?” Try to avoid thinking of other things while the other person is talking since you may not respond naturally to them when they finish.
For example, if they mention the nice weather, you may say something like, “That reminds me of the gorgeous weather in Hawaii when I visited. Have you been there?”
For example, you may say, “I just remembered a funny news story I found online. Do you want to hear it?” The person may not be as receptive of a random topic if you haven’t already talked to them yet.
