Trying to find common topics with someone you've never met before and may never meet again, is certainly awkward. Like it or not, your future holds many conversations with strangers that must start somewhere. Usually, they begin with small talk..
An icebreaker that works in every situation
There's one icebreaker question that'll work every single time: Tell me about yourself. The four words are much more effective than the question "So what do you do?" because you don't make any assumptions (假设) about the other person.. It allows you to start a conversation without the fear that you're going to make someone uncomfortable. Raising a broad question lets people lead you to who they are.
Stay curious
, your next move is equally important. You have to really listen to how the other person responds and care what they have to say. Talk about what they're interested in. Build on it. Ask them more questions about that thing.. You need to hear what the other person has to say. Bringing enthusiasm to the conversation will go a long way.
How to exit gracefully
Sometimes you just run out of things to talk about. One last trick for you. Be honest. Say you've got to go to the bar, to the bathroom, to say hello to your friend across the room. Then go.. But do you really want to be stuck talking to someone when you have nothing to talk about? Abandoning one bad conversation frees you up to start another with someone new. It starts with, "So Bob, tell me about yourself."
A. Sure, it might feel rude
B. Here's how to do small talk right
C. Don't quickly exit the conversation
D. After you get past the breaking of ice
E. Even if he's excited about a certain topic
F. A good conversation depends heavily on curiosity
G. The four words are more likely to lead to a truly interesting conversation
