7 ways to strike up a conversation with a total stranger

Published on May 25, 2019, 12:20 am

Written by Straker Julia in Entertainment

We all know how hard it can be to approach and talk to a total stranger! We head out to bar or club, see someone we like the look of, but have no idea how to approach them without getting our heads bitten off. We may clam up when faced with someone we barely know and can't even come out with some small talk.

Illustration : "7 ways to strike up a conversation with a total stranger" — Photo d'illustration

We stay silent, knowing that we may have missed out on a new friendship or even a date. So, if you're on the timid side, here are some tips on how to strike up a conversation with a total stranger without coming across as an idiot:

1. Talk about what's going around you

Refer to the book the other person is holding, mention an ad on the other side of the street, ask them what they think about the DJ's set... You could also ask them if they've tried the restaurant down the road or seen the latest movie in the local theater. These last two are good examples if you're hoping this encounter will lead to a date.

2. Help make the other person feel relaxed in your company

Don't talk about yourself - ask the other person a question or two. Ask them where they grew up, what they like to do, what interests them... Putting the person at ease will help break down any boundaries. Whether you discover that you have things in common or not, if they're relaxed it'll be easier to get to know them.

3. Don't get too personal

Avoid being too heavy or personal the first time you talk to someone. Keep conversation topics lighthearted and fun. If you get too personal, it could be seen as intrusive even that's not your intention.

4. Pay attention to small details

Ask questions that evoke a positive memory or invite a positive discussion. Don't talk about subjects that could start an argument... Talking about politics and religion are two classic mistakes. In other words, talk about the sunnier things in life!

5. A sense of humor can go a long way!

A good sense of humor will help you along, but don't be too 'giggly' or silly as you want the other person to take you seriously. Throw in the odd joke or two, just don't be OTT. Be responsive and make the other person laugh.

6. Talk about popular things so that you don't go too off-topic

The latest hit or blockbuster can be all it takes... Don't drift off topic and keep the conversation flowing in the same direction. Use what's going on around you to hang on to a topic.

7. Ask a little favor

Don't ask for a big favor... More along the lines of can they lend you a pen, what's the time, ask for directions... People like to help others out without feeling burdened, and as a result feel more at ease with the person asking the favor.

By Straker Julia
Writer

Passionate about writing, I write articles on the subjects that I love. Creativity and Animals themes are my favorites!