Travel – where have they been, what is their dream destination. People seem to love talking about a favorite place, or one on their wishlist. It’s also quite a neutral topic.

Ask them something about themselves – how long have you lived here, what’s your favorite hobby, what’s the worst movie you’ve ever seen?

Where are you from, have you been on any cool holidays lately (not likely with covid lol), do you have kids, how old are they etc

The weather and what you did on the weekend

I always gravitate towards work

Hows your morning/day been?
How will you spend your weekend?
I like your ______?

I am interested in these answers too

My partner asks the table what their favourite spread on toast is

I am so socially inept, I have nothing to offer you what do ever

I give a little compliment, such as I like your dress.

Ask the person something about themselves.

Depends if you can find common ground ie children or if they are wearing something that could spark a conversation or if you are eating something tell them about it ie you should try the brownies from this coffee shop they’re amazing. If they have a dog comment on it. Anything will usually give you enough of a feel for if you mesh.

If you’re at a party, ask how they know the host.

Try an ice breaker with something you are comfortable with. Perhaps ‘ I spent the weekend doing craft. Do you do any?’ etc. Most people are happy to talk if you can touch on a topic that interets them.

It can be quite daunting trying to strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know, especially if you are a more introverted kind of person. Start small and gradually work up to more in depth topics. Talk about the weather, favourite cafes, film/music genres, holiday destinations …..

Also; once people open up about their day and weekend, common interests may be found and conversation continues. Good luck!

I also like the weekend opener.. if it was just after a weekend, its asking what they had on. If its before, its asking if they have anything exciting planned. Great to break the ice and let them open first

I ask what people are doing with their day or with their weekend – plenty of scope for chatting with that question.

i always pay a compliment, like oh I like your bag, or your tattoo is really beautiful, something small but positive towards the person. Then before I realise it we are having a great conversation and making connections.

Sometimes they don’t work out but that’s cool, maybe they just aren’t the right fit to you

don’t be afraid just give it a try!

This is so hard .. but I think it is helpful to start with a compliment.