The Ultimate Guide On How To Start A Conversation In 2022
Starting a conversation is an excellent skill for networking and building relationships, whether you are trying to settle into a new role or meet a new professional contact. Despite this, finding the right words can be tricky the first time you meet someone. Whatever the situation or personality of the person you want to talk to, there are several effective ways to start a conversation. When you’re done reading this article, you’ll know exactly how to start a conversation with anyone, whether it’s a colleague or a complete stranger.
Throughout this useful guide, you will find some essential examples you can use when starting a conversation. As well as a list of ready-made conversation starters and a variety of ideas on how to break the ice. Are you ready to become a conversation master? Let’s get started!
Here’s How To Start A Conversation
When it comes to starting a conversation at work, you can choose from any number of topics, provided they are appropriate. When talking with colleagues or professional contacts, the conversation will differ from when talking with new friends or acquaintances. Starting a conversation with coworkers and colleagues could pay off by helping you build valuable relationships. To get the conversation started in the workplace, here are some ideas.
1. Talk About The Weather
While it may be a small talk cliche, commenting on the weather is always a viable option for starting a conversation with somebody you aren’t familiar with. This is an easy way to get someone talking and can lead to multiple topics. One of the best things about the weather is that it’s always changing, so you constantly have something new to start a conversation with. Who knows, you may even end up talking about the need for climate change solutions when using this conversation starter.
Examples: “When do you think this heat wave will be over?” or “Can you believe how hot it is in December?”
2. Comment On Your Surroundings
Many conversation starters can be found in the environment you’re in. You can get someone’s attention by commenting on the building, the temperature, or the artwork.
Example:” They did a horrible job decorating your office” or” The view from the top floor is incredible!”
3. Ask A Question
Everybody’s favorite topic is themselves. To start a conversation, try finding a topic that will allow the person to speak about their own interests, family, or experiences.
Example:” That’s a great shirt you are wearing; where did you buy it?” or” I heard that you moved from another country to work here; what was that like?”
4. Spark An Interest
Look for a topic you know the person is passionate about. It can be a great way to get your coworkers talking, and you can learn something new. Maintain a positive and friendly tone during the conversation.
Example: “I see your T-shirt says [movie name] who’s your favorite character?” or “I saw on the welcome email you are from Brazil. What is it like there?”
5. Give The Person A Compliment
Praising the work of an executive or prominent person in your organization is a good way to start a conversation.
Example: “I heard the presentation you gave yesterday. You made some really good points.”
The praise should be followed up with questions relevant to the compliment, such as how they became such an effective public speaker.
6. Get Their Opinion
It shows that you care about what other people think and are interested in their opinions when you seek them. Many people are happy to respond to your questions if they are familiar with the subject. Topics relevant to the moment should be chosen when seeking an opinion.
Example: “Do you like cold brew coffee?” or “What kind of shoes should I buy?”
7. Bring Up A Shared Memory
You can always find a topic to talk about with someone who shares something in common with you. As a result of your shared experiences, you can get along more easily, which facilitates the flow of conversation and builds relationships.
Example: “Do you remember that time Rachel threw up in the meeting?” or “Do you miss our old boss?”
8. Ask For Assistance
Another effective way to start a conversation is to ask for help. When it’s something they can easily provide, it makes the other person feel helpful. Those who do you a favor may think of you favorably and trust you more. Start a friendly conversation by asking for help, but make sure your request is convenient for the other person.
Example: “Could you tell me where the bathroom is?” or “Can you help me send an email?”
9. Give Your Assistance
When you are in a position to help someone, take advantage of that opportunity. By showing genuine concern and offering help, you can gain the trust of the other person.
Example: “Can I help you send an email?” or “Do you need help finding the bathroom?”
Afterward, you can discuss the contents of the binders, which would be related to the task.
10. Give Yourself An Introduction
Even though this may not be appropriate for every situation, introducing yourself is a straightforward way to express your interest in meeting someone. You can introduce yourself to someone in another department if you have just started a new job.
Example: “Hi, I’m Robin. I’m new here and want to introduce myself.”
Next, ask how long they have been with the company or what their position is.
11. Give A Positive Comment
It is usually possible to find something positive to say about an event or situation. Perhaps the occasion was the last office happy hour or a sports game the night before. An engaging conversation is likely if you share the same views.
Example: “Did you watch the shuffleboard game last night? I think our team finally hit their stride.”
From there, the conversation can naturally progress towards a topic you both find interesting.
12. Give Someone A Compliment
The act of complimenting someone can brighten their day and boost their self-confidence. Then you can tell them why you like that aspect of the person.
Example: “Have you been working out? You look great.”
Several follow-up questions are possible to keep the conversation going, such as where they get their haircuts or how they choose their hairstyles.
13. Enquire About A Topic
Asking the person you want to talk to for information is a good way to start a conversation. Using this method is an effective and natural way to build rapport with someone. Regardless of whether you already know the answer, it is still a good way to approach someone if you cannot think of anything else. For example, if you are at a work event and see a colleague you have not spoken to, you can ask them about the event you are both attending.
With this conversation starter, you can take the conversation even further by mentioning something you like about the speakers and so on.
How To Start A Conversation: Top Tips
Remember To Follow Up
Consider exchanging your contact information if the conversation has gone well and it feels natural to do so. Then, you can explain that it was a pleasure to meet them and that you look forward to continuing the conversation. Tell them you valued their time and paid attention to their chat by mentioning specific details from it.
Be Confident
In many situations, starting a conversation can be intimidating. Your conversation partner will likely appreciate your gesture and may have been hoping to break the ice with you as well. While meeting new people and expanding your network can be daunting, it is worth it to feel anxious or nervous when approaching them.
Be A Good Listener
When you listen actively, you focus completely on what the speaker is saying. By doing so, you will be able to fully comprehend the information being exchanged during the conversation and respond thoughtfully. This will help to build trust and a relationship with the person you’re engaging with.
Body Language
Smile or make eye contact to make the individuals feel more comfortable, but watch for signs that they are unavailable or uninterested. During that time, it may be best to move on and respect their space. A new connection may not be a good idea at this time.
