Buzz
Small talk often feels unengaging and rarely fosters any genuine connection. You might have heard that asking questions is a solid approach, but the type of questions you choose can truly bring the conversation to life.
Questions can quickly become as dull as small talk if you’re not careful. A simple yes-or-no question doesn’t stimulate anyone or allow for real engagement. Julian Reisinger, founder of Love Life Solved, suggests asking about their passions. For instance,
When a friend shares their experience of horseback riding, don’t just ask, ‘Where did you go?’ Instead, try asking, ‘I’ve never gone horseback riding. What makes it so thrilling?’ Anyone passionate about the subject will not only teach you a lot – in an engaging way – but they’ll also warm to you and feel closer afterwards.
Go beyond surface details like the person, place, or activity and try to understand the ‘why’ behind what they do. If you’re unsure about their passions, simply ask them. People love discussing what drives them, and if you can learn what they truly care about, you’ll uncover a deeper understanding of who they are.
Image courtesy of Nicholas Shipes.
