Finding a topic for conversation is one of the challenges we usually face when meeting a new person. Instead of fearing or running away from the conversation, you need to overcome the fear of it. Knowing what to talk about and to is an excellent way to reduce anxiety.
The best topics for conversation
1. weather
Although it may seem trivial to talk about the weather, it’s an excellent neutral topic everyone can discuss and comment on. For example, in the beautiful season of spring, you can start the conversation with these questions:
- It’s a lovely day.
- It looks like it’s going to rain, do you like rain?
- The weather is pleasant, do you enjoy this weather too?
Next time there’s an awkward silence, break the silence by asking one of these weather questions. As you start talking, the topic of the conversation will change, and a more extended discussion will take place.
2. Arts and entertainment
Art and entertainment topics are good conversation starters. Some of these topics include:
- movies and series ;
- popular restaurant;
- music taste ;
- Favorite book.
Some examples of questions you can ask are:
- Are you a book reader?
- Do you listen to podcasts? What podcast do you usually listen to?
- Have you tried a new app or game recently that you like?
Avoid discussing movies or books the other person hasn’t seen or read. It is not a good idea to talk about the details of a film or book that he has not seen or read and has no mental idea about. Find common ground and continue the discussion from there.
People love to talk about their hobbies and will probably be interested in yours too. Talking about hobbies allows you to learn about other people’s hobbies and create fun moments by trying them out.
As you listen to the person, talk about their hobbies, be sure to ask questions that come up. For example, if he says, “That was the last time I went skiing,” ask why.
3. Sport
Sports topics are a good starting point for talking to people you don’t know. Sports topics can include:
- Favorite sports team;
- Sports events;
- championship race.
If the other party supports the rival team, don’t cry for him; Instead, ask for his opinion on things like team performance or players and continue the discussion. You may be upset or upset that he is a supporter of your rival team, but that’s normal. Little by little, this competition will lead to interesting conversations between you.
4. Family
Talking about family may be a good starting point. You can start the conversation with these questions:
- How many siblings do you have?
- Where does your family live
Be prepared for these types of questions yourself. This type of short talk will improve your communication skills. It also helps you get a lot of information about this person quickly.
Although discussing family can be a great conversation starter, be careful when discussing sensitive topics. For example, if a person has an infertility problem, asking if he has a child or plans to have one is not a good question.
5. Food
Food is one of the great topics for conversation, as long as you respect the interests of the other party and don’t seek to criticize his food taste. Some examples of food-related questions include:
- Have you tried a new restaurant recently?
- What is the food you like to cook at home?
- Do you enjoy cooking?
6. Job
One of the common topics of short and casual conversations is a job. They may ask you what your job is or whether you like it. If you’re doing something hard to explain, always have a business card in your wallet.
Always focus on what you like to know about others and what you enjoy talking about. This makes the small talk more like entertainment than professional business talk.
7. a trip
Most people enjoy talking about nature and beautiful tourist areas. If you are into travel and tourism, be ready to answer questions and give your opinions about your travels.
Ask others about their favorite places to travel. Many people like to talk about it and will happily share their experiences. Talking about travel is a great way to create a fun and exciting conversation.
8. birthplace
Talking about a person’s hometown can also be a good conversation starter. For example, you can ask:
- Where is your hometown
- Why did you move here?
- How is where you grew up different from where you live now?
Usually, when talking about hometowns, people tell each other interesting anecdotes and stories.
Worst topics to talk about
1. financial department
It’s not a good idea to ask about the financial situation of someone you just met. It’s good to talk about the job, but not to ask about the salary. Most people think this question is personal, and if they are underpaid or not in a good financial situation, this question makes them feel bad.
2. Politics and religion
Religion and politics are personal topics that should not be discussed. Because you may have different religious and political orientations, talking about these issues may cause annoyance and arguments.
3. sex
Talking about sex or asking intimate questions about it is awkward. When talking to someone you don’t know well yet, don’t ask sexual questions or talk about your sexual orientation and experiences. Both of these will make the other party uncomfortable.
4. Death
Death is another heavy subject you shouldn’t start or continue conversing with. This is one of the emotional topics that can create a sad and uncomfortable atmosphere, so it is better not to derail the atmosphere by talking about it.
5. appearance
Don’t ask someone their age unless you know them well. Although this question may seem simple, it is awkward for some people.
Also, avoid talking about looks. Never talk about weight gain or loss. You never know the reason for the other person’s weight loss or gain, so you may put them in an uncomfortable position by talking about these issues.
6. Offensive jokes
Sexist or racist jokes are a quick way to end a conversation. Sometimes people make jokes that they don’t know might hurt others. If the joke you’re about to tell makes fun of someone’s race, culture, gender, or sexual orientation, don’t tell it.
7. past relationships
Never ask people about their past relationships. When you’re in a new relationship, comparing it to your past relationship can make your relationship not go for a second date.
Talking about past relationships makes him remember bitter and sad events that he experienced in the past, which is very unpleasant.
8. Security
Health issues are not a good place to talk. You may be tempted to talk about an illness or pain you’ve recently experienced, but usually, people don’t like to hear about such experiences. Some topics you should avoid talking about include:
- How do you feel about his current illness?
- providing treatment solutions for complex medical problems;
- Tips for weight loss or fitness.
final word
Short, informal conversations become easier with practice. Talk about topics that are suitable for discussion without getting stressed. Never invade people’s privacy and ask private questions.
you say
What other topics do you think are suitable for discussion? Please share your valuable comments and experiences with our dear users and us.
