Getting to know someone can be like peeling back the layers of an onion, and it can reveal some interesting and unexpected things.
While small talk has its place, asking the right questions can fast-track the process and allow you to delve into the nitty-gritty of what makes people tick. Here are some questions to ask to go beyond the surface-level chit-chat and delve into the heart of what makes someone who they are.
1. What’s something you’re passionate about that not many people know?
Source: Unsplash This opens the door to hidden passions and interests, revealing aspects of a person’s personality that might not be immediately obvious. It can spark conversations about hobbies, dreams, or causes that they hold dear. By delving into their passions, you can gain a deeper understanding of their values and what truly motivates them.
2. If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would they be and why?
The answer to this question offers insights into someone’s intellectual and personal influences, as well as their values and aspirations. Who they choose and why can reveal their heroes, role models, or even their sense of humour. It can spark fascinating conversations about history, culture, or personal experiences.
3. What’s the most meaningful piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A classic for a reason — this dives into the lessons that have shaped a person’s life and the wisdom they’ve gained along the way. It can reveal their values, their outlook on life, and the people who have influenced them. The advice they share can be thought-provoking, inspiring, or even humorous, giving you a glimpse into their inner world.
4. What’s a hidden talent or skill that you have?
This question unearths hidden talents or surprising skills that might not be obvious at first glance. It can lead to fun conversations about hobbies, passions, or even quirky abilities. Discovering someone’s hidden talents can reveal a playful side of their personality and spark a sense of wonder and appreciation.
5. What’s a book, film, or song that has deeply resonated with you?
Questions like this open a window into someone’s emotional landscape and their connection to art and culture. Their choices can reveal their values, their beliefs, or even their struggles. It can spark discussions about shared interests, different interpretations, or the power of art to inspire and transform.
6. What’s a lesson you learned the hard way?
This dives into the challenges and setbacks that have shaped a person’s life. It can reveal their resilience, their growth, and their ability to learn from their mistakes. The lessons they share can be insightful, humbling, or even humorous, offering valuable life lessons and a deeper understanding of their journey.
7. What’s something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet?
This taps into someone’s dreams and aspirations, revealing their adventurous spirit or hidden desires. It can spark conversations about travel, hobbies, or personal goals. Their answers can be inspiring, surprising, or even humorous, giving you a glimpse into their bucket list and their vision for the future.
8. What’s your earliest childhood memory?
If you want them to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, ask this. It can reveal glimpses of their family life, cultural background, or even their sense of wonder and curiosity as a child. These memories can be heartwarming, funny, or even poignant, offering a deeper understanding of their roots.
9. What’s something that makes you laugh uncontrollably?
This uncovers someone’s sense of humour and what tickles their funny bone. It can reveal their playful side, their appreciation for absurdity, or their favourite comedians or comedy shows. Sharing laughter can be a bonding experience, creating a sense of warmth and camaraderie.
10. What’s a cause or issue you care deeply about?
Asking this is a great way to explore someone’s values, beliefs, and their commitment to making a difference in the world. It can reveal their passions, their concerns, and their hopes for the future. Discussing social issues or causes they care about can lead to meaningful conversations and shared purpose.
11. What’s a skill you’d love to learn or improve?
This taps into someone’s desire for personal growth and development. It can reveal their aspirations, their curiosity, or their areas of interest. It can spark conversations about learning resources, challenges, or even shared goals for self-improvement.
12. What’s your favourite way to spend a rainy day?
If you want insights into someone’s personality, their comfort zone, and what they like to do, ask this. It can reveal whether they’re introverted or extroverted, creative or practical, or adventurous or laid-back. Their answer can spark ideas for shared activities or simply provide a glimpse into their daily life.
13. What’s a small act of kindness that made a big impact on you?
Source: Unsplash This delves into the moments of human connection and generosity that have touched someone’s life. It can reveal their appreciation for the simple things, their empathy, and their belief in the power of kindness. Sharing these stories can be uplifting and inspiring, reminding us of the goodness in the world.
14. What’s something you’re proud of that might surprise people?
Source: Unsplash What a way to uncover hidden achievements or accomplishments that someone might not typically share! It can reveal their resilience, their determination, or their unique talents. It can spark conversations about overcoming challenges, personal growth, and unexpected journeys.
15. What’s your favourite way to unwind and de-stress?
Source: Unsplash This gives a bit of insight into someone’s self-care practices and their approach to managing stress. It can reveal their hobbies, their relaxation techniques, or their ways of finding balance in life. Sharing these practices can lead to helpful tips, mutual support, or even shared activities for well-being.
