At least once in their lives, all people have become nervous when engaging in conversation with strangers. We all know, however, that this is really an everyday thing, and that it is important to learn to manage the initial nerves in order to take advantage of it.
For many it is easy to talk to their friends or co-workers, but when you go to a meeting with new people, the pressure increases and problems appear. If you consider yourself one of these shy people, don’t get carried away – there are plenty of talking points to break the ice .
To avoid these uncomfortable moments of not knowing what to say, we advise you these 15 questions that you can use to break the ice with strangers .
15 questions to start a conversation with strangers
1. “Hello”
Even if it is not a question, we should consider saying “hello”, the word that usually opens almost all conversations. Many times a handshake or just a smile is the best way to break the ice .
Don’t worry so much and let “hello” be your main option.
2. Do you mind if I introduce myself?
This question can be used in many ways, especially when trying to reach out to someone who has not previously been introduced to you but with whom you wish to strike up a conversation.
You can do it with a bit of humor, for example “I’ll tell you the truth, the only person I know here is the waiter, and I met him two minutes ago. Do you mind if I introduce myself?
3. What do you do for fun when you are not working?
Although it seems personal and you think that it is not correct to ask this to a stranger, it really is an excellent option. This question will make you establish a direct link with the other person, without being strange.
You may have several things in common with that person and thanks to this you discover it, making the conversation lighter and more entertaining.
4. How did you discover this event?
If you’re at an event, like a festival, you can ask the other person how they found out. Thanks to this you can get many answers, anecdotes and various details that may interest you and help the conversation flow.
You can also apply it in business meetings and even parties, there is always a story behind each person.
5. I don’t think I know this dish, do you?
Food will always be the topic of conversation anywhere and with anyone. If you are at a dinner or are queuing to order food, do not get caught in the awkward silences, you can ask the other person if they know something about that dish or which one they recommend from those found on the menu. This will help you show your interest in their opinion and that you are willing to try new things.
6. Hey, are you by any chance friends with …?
You may never have seen this person, but if you meet someone else at the event or party you’re at, it’s a good option to ask the person you want to talk to if they are their friend. He may say yes, of course he may not, but with either of the two answers, pretend surprise and continue the conversation: you will see that it will be much easier for both of you.
7. Do you have a trip planned?
Again, we have a question that may seem very personal, but it can help you a lot in any social gathering.
Everyone at some point wants to travel to another place and if you find yourself near a holiday or days off, this could be a great way to break the ice. If by chance they say no, you can ask them where they would like to go.
8. Are you from here?
Location-based questions are always a great conversation starter. Show interest in the other person’s lifestyle, as well as where they reside.
If the answer is yes, you can ask him to recommend places to visit, but if he is negative, you can tell him about your experience as a visitor and listen to his.
9. Have you heard anything about…?
It is always good to be informed, whether it is general culture or news that occurred during the week. Any topic that you know and is positive can help you have a fluid conversation.
Being up-to-date on current events will make you seem focused and willing to learn about various topics. However, there are things you should take care of: do not presume to know something that the other person does not and try to avoid talking about controversial topics, such as politics or religion. On these points everyone has their own opinion and it will not be pleasant to argue.
10. Have you started to see …?
We live surrounded by technology and in it there is a world of things to see, be they videos, series or movies. Something you can be completely sure of is that all people who have the internet will be aware of any of these issues. Ask the other person about their favorite series, it may also be the one you are watching and you have a broad topic of conversation.
11. Do you have problems with the Wi-Fi?
If you’re in a hotel or business meeting, slow Wi-Fi is a great way to start a conversation with strangers .
A problem that affects all of you will always be a good option to start the conversation. Even if it is not a pleasant situation, talking to other people can be a good way to forget about the bad for a while.
12. What do you like most about your job?
A person who cares about the well-being of others will always have opportunities for conversation. With this, you can have a positive conversation and discover the interests of the other person and even their work goals.
13. What beautiful shoes!
Again, we walk away from the questions and go straight to the compliments; for example, something as simple as admiring the other person’s taste when choosing their clothing.
Sure, only do it if you really like what they are wearing, because if you don’t like it, the person may notice that you say it out of obligation. This can help you keep the conversation going by asking where they bought it.
14. Did you all come together or did you meet here?
If you observe a group and want to get closer to talking to them, this is a great way to join the conversation. This is a good way to do it, as it allows everyone to intervene and not just those who are closest to you. Likewise, the whole group will have the possibility to speak, achieving a more fluid conversation.
15. Do you have any ideas or advice on…?
It is always good to listen to the opinion of others, and when talking with strangers it can open up a lot of possibilities. Thanks to this, you will have the possibility to ask about anything, from a project at work to their opinion on the new phone you want to buy. But of course, you have to show that you are really interested in what the other person is saying.
Reference
- Gillett, R. Premack, R. The 23 best icebreakers to use at a party where you don’t know anyone. For Business Insider. [Revised August 2018].
