Small talk isn’t a waste of time – it’s a skill that can open doors and build connections.
That’s why it’s good to have some questions in the bag that you can use to engage with people effectively. These aren’t just random Qs; they’re strategic tools to spark interesting discussions and create rapport. Master these, and you’ll never struggle with small talk again.
1. What’s keeping you busy these days?
Source: Unsplash This open-ended question allows the other person to share what’s currently important in their life. It’s more engaging than the standard “What do you do?” as it invites them to talk about hobbies, projects, or personal interests beyond their job. Listen carefully to their response – it often provides hooks for further conversation.
2. Have you been watching any good shows lately?
Source: Unsplash In our era of peak TV, this question is almost guaranteed to generate discussion. It’s a low-pressure topic that most people have opinions on. If they mention a show you’ve seen, you can share your thoughts. If not, ask what they enjoy about it. This can lead to conversations about genres, actors, or even broader topics the shows address.
3. What’s the best trip you’ve taken recently?
Travel is a universally appealing topic. This question allows people to share positive experiences and often reveals their interests and values. Even if they haven’t travelled recently, they might share a memorable past trip or discuss places they’d like to visit. It’s an excellent way to find common ground or learn about new destinations.
4. What’s something you’re looking forward to?
Source: Unsplash This question focuses on the positive and gives insight into what the person values. It could be anything from a major life event to a simple pleasure like an upcoming film release. Their answer often provides natural follow-up questions and can steer the conversation in interesting directions.
5. How did you get started in your field?
Source: Unsplash If you know the person’s profession, this question digs deeper than just asking what they do. It invites them to share their journey and often reveals interesting stories or insights. It shows genuine interest in their experiences and can lead to discussions about career paths, education, or industry trends.
6. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned recently?
Source: Unsplash This question appeals to intellectually curious people and can lead to fascinating exchanges. It could be anything from a scientific fact to a historical tidbit or a new skill. It often reveals the person’s interests and can spark engaging discussions on various topics.
7. What’s your go-to recommendation for [restaurants/books/podcasts]?
Source: Unsplash Asking for recommendations is flattering – it suggests you value their opinion. Choose a category based on the context or what you know about the person. This question often leads to enthusiastic responses and can provide you with new things to try. It’s also easy to follow up by asking why they recommend that particular option.
8. How do you like to unwind after a long day?
Source: Pexels This question offers insight into the person’s lifestyle and values. It can reveal hobbies, family dynamics, or personal rituals. The answers are often relatable and can lead to discussions about work-life balance, stress management, or shared interests in relaxation techniques.
9. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
This question often elicits thoughtful responses and can lead to meaningful conversations. It might reveal the person’s values, life philosophy, or significant life experiences. It’s also a great way to gain some wisdom yourself. Be prepared to share your own answer if they ask you in return.
10. If you could instantly become an expert in one thing, what would it be?
This playful question reveals a person’s interests and aspirations. It can lead to discussions about skills, knowledge areas, or even fantasies. The responses are often surprising and can spark conversations about learning, personal growth, or the value of expertise in different fields.
11. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend?
This question gives insight into the person’s lifestyle and priorities. It can reveal hobbies, family dynamics, or how they balance work and leisure. It’s a great way to find common interests or learn about new activities. The answer often provides natural follow-up questions about specific aspects of their weekend routines.
12. What’s a skill you’d like to learn or improve?
Source: Unsplash This question reveals the person’s aspirations and areas of interest. It can lead to discussions about personal development, learning methods, or the value of different skills in today’s world. It’s also an opportunity to share your own learning goals or offer resources if you have experience in their area of interest.
13. What’s the most surprising thing about your job?
Source: Unsplash If you know the person’s profession, this question digs deeper than surface-level work talk. It invites them to share unique insights or amusing anecdotes about their field. It’s more engaging than asking about day-to-day tasks and can lead to interesting discussions about different industries or workplace cultures.
14. What’s a cause or issue you’re passionate about?
Source: Unsplash This question can lead to more substantive conversations and reveals what the person values. It could be anything from environmental issues to social causes or local community projects. Be prepared for potentially strong opinions, and remember to keep the tone respectful and open-minded.
15. If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Source: Unsplash This imaginative question reveals the person’s interests in history, culture, or specific fields. Their choice and reasoning can lead to fascinating discussions about historical events, influential figures, or hypothetical scenarios. It’s a great way to gauge someone’s knowledge and passions in a fun, low-pressure way.
16. What’s a book (or film) that changed your perspective on something?
Source: Unsplash This question invites the person to share something that had a significant impact on them. It can lead to deeper discussions about ideas, personal growth, or cultural influences. Their answer often provides insight into their values and thinking processes. Be prepared to share your own example to keep the conversation flowing.
