7 Tricks on How to Start a Conversation
For some people, it takes guts to start a conversation while for others it’s as easy as pie. Strangers are everywhere but we are taught that we should maintain our distance from them. Although almost every in your life was a stranger until you spoke to them.
When we leave behind our hesitation and start a conversation, we are saying yes to an experience, an opportunity to see this world from a different lens than ours. So in this blog, we will tell you how to start a conversation with anyone without much hesitation and how to keep it smooth till the end.
Break the ice
We repeatedly encounter strangers in our daily lives. We might see them every day but never speak to them. And sometimes we want to speak but the words seem to get stuck somewhere inside us and never come out.
Do you have something in your mind? Then say it. Say the word! Say “hi” or “hello”, or talk about- how the weather is, or ask where they brought their funky shoes from! When you say the first few words everything else just flows(most of the time).
Take the cue
Understand their body language. From the person’s body language and facial expression, you can take a cue whether they are interested to talk. You don’t want to make someone uncomfortable while trying to have a conversation when they are not ready.
And when you find out that they don’t have a problem/hesitation taking you, can start a blooming conversation. You will be surprised to learn how much people are willing to share their stories with you if you care to ask.
Give a genuine compliment
Give specific rather than general compliments. Don’t tell them something that is very obvious. Say something unique but be genuine.
You might say- Hey, I think you have the best laugh!
Or you might say- Has anyone ever told you that you have great posture?
I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. – Maya Angelou
Ask for their opinion
We have different ways we look at things and the way we perceive the world. Every one of us has opinions. And every one of us wants them to be heard. So when you talk to someone for the first time you can ask their opinions without hesitation.
But when you ask for opinions, choose topics that arent heavy. The conversation should not make someone feel insecure or inferior.
The worst thing you can do when talking to someone for the very first time is to make them feel bad about themselves.
And the most important thing when they share their opinions, listen. Don’t think about counterpoints/your replies, truly listen.
Ask open-ended questions
You can always ask uncomplicated open-ended questions to keep the conversation going.
For example, you can ask- What is your worst travel experience?
What really makes you angry?
What was the scariest dream you’ve had?
Find something in common
When you meet someone for the first time find ways to be in the same boat. Don’t start a conversation like you are starting a debate competition.
Find a topic that has a mutual appeal. This way the conversation becomes a lot easier with almost zero cringy moments. By limiting yourself to something specific you both love, you can actually open up a lot many doors.
“Everyone has their own ways of expression. I believe we all have a lot to say, but finding ways to say it is more than half the battle.”
―
Curiosity can do wonders
There are 7 billion people in the world and each with a unique story to tell. A little curiosity on your part can function as a key to the treasure that people hold in their hearts. A little curiosity will make you feel at home in your city, in your neighborhood, or anywhere in this world!
Break the cycle of small talks. Start asking meaningful questions, and be genuinely interested. Although initially, it may seem awkward but trust me, most people are happy with the fact that someone is interested to hear them.
To make the communications easier you can talk with our experts. Now!
