SMALL TALK with Strangers TIP no.11

SMALL TALK with Strangers TIP no.11 HOW TO TALK WITH ANYONE!

Extra Practice!

Here’s a conversation starter activity for you, using various locations. Try to think of something to say to break the ice and start a conversation.

1. How would you start a conversation at a coffee shop?

  • “Hey, do you know if the coffee here is good? I’m trying it for the first time.”
  • “What’s your favorite drink here? I’m looking for recommendations.”
  • “The line is always long, isn’t it? Do you come here often?”

2. How would you start a conversation at a bus stop?

  • “Do you know how often the buses come? I feel like I’ve been waiting forever.”
  • “Is this the right stop for the 42 bus? I’m not too familiar with this route.”
  • “It’s freezing out here! I wish the bus would hurry up, don’t you?”

3. How would you start a conversation at a supermarket?

  • “Do you know where the baking supplies are? I can’t seem to find them.”
  • “This place is packed! Do you always shop at this time?”
  • “I’m trying to decide between these two brands—any recommendations?”

4. How would you start a conversation at a library?

  • “Do you know if this library has any good travel books? I’m planning a trip.”
  • “Are you here to study, or just relax? I’m trying to focus, but it’s hard.”
  • “I’m new here, do you know how the book return system works?”

5. How would you start a conversation at the gym?

  • “Hey, do you know how to use this machine? I’m still getting used to it.”
  • “Have you been coming here long? I’m trying to stick to a routine.”
  • “What’s your favorite workout here? I’m looking for something new to try.”

6. How would you start a conversation at a concert?

  • “This band is great, right? What’s your favorite song of theirs?”
  • “Have you seen them perform before? I’ve been looking forward to this all week!”
  • “Did you come here with friends, or are you flying solo like me?”

7. How would you start a conversation at an airport?

  • “Where are you headed? I’m off to New York for work.”
  • “These flights always seem to get delayed, don’t they? How long have you been waiting?”
  • “Is this your first time flying with this airline? I’ve heard mixed reviews.”

8. How would you start a conversation at a museum?

  • “What do you think of this exhibit? It’s fascinating, isn’t it?”
  • “Do you know much about this artist? I’m not very familiar with their work.”
  • “Are you into modern art, or do you prefer more classical pieces?”

9. How would you start a conversation at a park?

  • “It’s such a nice day, isn’t it? Do you come here often to relax?”
  • “Do you know any good walking trails around here? I’m new to the area.”
  • “I love seeing people walking their dogs here! Do you have any pets?”

10. How would you start a conversation at a restaurant?

  • “Have you tried the food here before? I’m wondering what’s good.”
  • “I’ve heard good things about this place. Have you eaten here before?”
  • “Do you know if the portions are big here? I’m deciding between two dishes.”

11. How would you start a conversation at a train station?

  • “Do you know if the 5:30 train is usually on time? I’m running late!”
  • “Is this the right platform for the express train? I’m not sure where to go.”
  • “These stations are always busy, aren’t they? Do you commute often?”

12. How would you start a conversation at a bookstore?

  • “Have you read this book? I’ve heard it’s really good.”
  • “Do you have a favorite genre? I’m looking for something new to read.”
  • “I’m trying to find a gift for a friend, any suggestions for a good book?”

13. How would you start a conversation at a shopping mall?

  • “Do you know if there’s a sale going on in any of the stores? It looks packed today.”
  • “I’m looking for a gift for someone. Do you know any good stores for that?”
  • “It’s so crowded here today! Do you usually come shopping on weekends?”

14. How would you start a conversation at a sports event?

  • “Who are you rooting for? I’ve been a fan of this team for years.”
  • “Do you think the game will go into overtime? It’s been so close!”
  • “Have you been to this stadium before? The atmosphere is incredible.”

15. How would you start a conversation at a movie theater?

  • “Have you seen any reviews of this movie? I’m hoping it’s as good as the trailer.”
  • “Do you come to this theater often? I like it here, the seats are comfy.”
  • “Do you know if this movie has a post-credit scene? I don’t want to miss it.”

16. How would you start a conversation at a hotel lobby?

  • “Is this your first time staying here? I’m new to this hotel.”
  • “What’s the best thing to do around here? I’m looking for something fun.”
  • “Do you know if the breakfast buffet is worth it? I’ve been thinking about trying it.”

17. How would you start a conversation at a wedding?

  • “How do you know the couple? I’ve been friends with them for years.”
  • “This venue is beautiful, isn’t it? Have you been to weddings here before?”
  • “The food here is amazing! What do you think of the menu?”

18. How would you start a conversation at a beach?

  • “The water looks great today! Do you like to swim or just relax?”
  • “Do you know if there are any good spots for snorkeling around here?”
  • “This beach is amazing! Have you been here before, or is this your first time?”

19. How would you start a conversation at a restaurant bar?

  • “What are you drinking? I’m looking to try something new.”
  • “Do you come here often? The atmosphere is great.”
  • “I heard they have great cocktails here. Have you tried any?”

20. How would you start a conversation at a public pool?

  • “Do you know if they have lap swim hours here? I’m trying to get some exercise in.”
  • “The water’s perfect today, isn’t it? Do you come here often?”
  • “Do you have any tips for learning how to swim better? I’m still working on my technique.”
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