We get it. Meeting new people can be intimidating and awkward. The hardest part of any new connection is trying to figure out how to start the conversation. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
To celebrate World Hello Day this month we’re giving you all the tips, tricks and examples to start a killer conversation…
Confidence is key
Be courageous. Starting a conversation as naturally and unforced as possible gets you off to a good start. You’ll begin to feel more comfortable meeting new people the more you practice. Most people enjoy a good conversation when you’re bold, so go for it. Key piece of advice; be sure to have your answers ready for these conversation starters. They will likely ask the same questions back.
Avoid the small talk
Most people want to avoid the boring small talk like “how’s the weather” or “did you see the big game last night?” Starting a stimulating conversation can be easier than you might think. Think outside the box and the other person will want to have an engaging conversation with you. At ASKWHO we want you to make genuine connections. That’s why we give you groups for your interests so you can ask specific questions that lead to better conversations.
Opinions Keep Things Interesting
Any easy win is to ask for recommendations. Maybe consider asking more questions about their personality or what they are into. Once you’ve been in the conversation for a while, start to get deeper. Ask those bold questions like, “What’s your biggest fear?” or “Who is a character in a movie that is most similar to you and why?”. You may just find that one thing you can connect over.
This actually works
Try an icebreaker. We know, on team building days we all dread the icebreakers. However, on a one-on-one conversation, icebreakers are fun ways to start a thoughtful conversation without feeling forced. Impress your new friends with your unique discussion topics.
Here are some of the top 10 ice breakers you can work into a conversation and seem interesting – without appearing awkward. Find a way to work it into a conversational smoothly, and you are good to go…
1. Which season best fits your personality – spring, summer, fall, or winter?
2. What book are you currently reading?
3. If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be?
4. What’s your go-to karaoke song?
5. If you won a million dollars, what would be your big-ticket item?
6. What is your favourite place to travel to?
7. If you had a superhero power, what would it be?
8. Name one thing you’ve crossed off your bucket list.
9. What’s your favourite touristy thing to do in your hometown?
10. What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Consider your setting
Sometimes an opportunity may not present itself to work in an icebreaker. In situations like that, be prepared to strike up natural conversation relating to the event or the location…
“How’s the food?” (Or drink, artwork, game, etc.)
“Are you having a good time?”
“How do you know the host” or “What brings you to this event?”
“What’s your story?”
“Is this your first time at an event like this?”
These are all starters. The real fun begins when you can keep the conversation going. This is when you can dive deeper into who a person is and find out what they’re all about.
Put it to work
Let’s practice your conversation starters with new people looking to connect. Head on over to ASKWHO and start the conversation now. Likeminded people are waiting to chat and you may just discover something new. Try it now.