A quick guide to starting conversations
Did you know you can brighten someone’s day and feel more socially connected when you’re comfortable making the first move to start a conversation? Here are a few examples of everyday opportunities for conversing with strangers. First, try reaching out to people around you.
Meet new neighbors.
Strike up a conversation with someone new to your neighborhood. People in a new place can always use a hand, whether learning about local resources, getting settled in, or getting acquainted.
Commune with commuters.
Offer to give up your seat on a bus or train. Strike up a conversation with the person who accepts or a new person you end up near. Give your window or aisle
seat to someone who has a middle seat on a flight and exchange a few nice
words.
Connect with small courtesies.
Notice and say ‘thank you’ the next time someone extends a small favor to you.
Appreciate moments when someone:
- Opens the door for you
- Picks up something you’ve dropped (or who points out that you dropped something)
- Refills your soda glass or coffee cup in a restaurant
Add an extra sentence of appreciation and a little
small talk to get a conversation started. Like, “Aw, thanks for the kindness. You made my day! Gorgeous day, isn’t it?” (Overstatement is OK.)
