When you meet a group, deciding what questions to ask people to break the ice and make them comfortable is crucial. You want to be friendly and curious, yet cool and exciting.
You only get one chance for the first impression so finding the right questions to ask people is sort of a big deal. Furthermore, if you want to know someone genuinely, you have to know how to make them want to open up to you. So, it's safe to say that developing healthy communication skills is a process, and this will help you learn how to approach or deepen your connection with individuals you already know.
Sometimes "questions To Ask People" Are Plain Silly
Most people know it's best to avoid talking about politics, religion, and sexual orientation. It's impolite, but to skip the annoying small talk, yet get into conversation means avoiding things like weather, or anything that can get you into an argument. You need questions that will leave enough room for you to elaborate or ask more. So, the real conversation starters or questions to ask people you just met are simple, yet full of pop culture references.
Don't just ask this or that, instead, ask: "How do you feel about…" Make a conversation more amusing by creating imaginary scenarios where will you challenge a person or a group of people. For example: "Would you rather live in the Harry Potter or Iron Man universe?" It's utterly free from any drama and allows you to come back with a witty response or an anecdote.
Feel Free To Ask Challenging Questions
People like to talk about themselves, but you don't want to get too personal too soon. Some of the best questions are related to traveling, movies, and books, as well as childhood and young adulthood. Here are ten great examples of originality that will allow you to learn about how a person thinks.
What's the worst job you've ever had? And what job do you think you couldn't do?
Who would you trade places with for a week, and why?
What is your favorite conspiracy theory or gossip about a celebrity?
If you had to choose, would you live all your life by a day or by night?
What's your best birthday and what made it so special?
You have to tattoo one word on your forehead. Which would it be? Why?
Among all "questions to ask people," which one would you ban and why?
How do you relax, reenergize?
What's the most common misconception about you? Does it bother you?
If you could change one thing in your childhood, what would it be?
Don't Just Look For Questions To Ask People
It's essential to keep your best questions for all those awkward silences. Instead of going through questions, let the conversation flow. The art of listening is a beautiful quality. So, don't start merely shooting one question after another, take an interest in their answers.
Don't jump from one topic to another. Instead, try to find what the person's passionate about and go from there. Each of these examples gives you enough room for follow-ups. Ask away only if you notice that the person is interested in a topic.
Another mistake people tend to make is to agree or strongly disagree with a particular statement entirely. Let others explain why they feel the way they do, and then you can make a less critical response.
Be Yourself, Only More Polished
Maybe you love to gossip, and that's up to you. But, a person you're talking to doesn't have to know that immediately. If it's someone from your workplace, you might get yourself in trouble, so keep things interesting, yet light and on the neutral side.
While among questions to ask people, it's ok to discuss celebrity culture and fashion, but don't pass judgments harshly, and try to express yourself politely. Just like you're listening to that person and trying to figure them out, they are doing the same to you. Talking too much isn't ideal. If, on top of that, you babble and gossip, you're not going to get any points for communication skills.
Staying true to yourself means talking freely about things you're passionate about. If you're a vegan, you can say it without making everyone around feel guilty for eating meat or wearing leather shoes. It's your choice and your passion. The more respect and honesty you show, the more others will respond accordingly.
It's More Than Merely "questions To Ask People"
While asking amusing, unusual questions will make an impression, your body language and sound of your voice should follow. Sit tall, and try to watch the person in the eye while you're talking. You can be your charming self without playing with your hair or doing anything similar to calm your nerves. Even if you're talking to someone you really like, it's best to have a natural, "we're just talking" approach. Anything else would look forced and even awkward.
We spend a lot of time texting, so we tend to forget how to talk in real life. You don't have body language when you're texting, and you have to point out when you're sarcastic. But, in reality, the small signs can be quite telling. Don't cover your mouth or yawn, and never, ever use text language instead of talking. Don't say LOL. People can hear and see you laughing, so don't make things worse by bringing online life into a real one.
A Real Conversation Can Be Priceless
It takes two to tango, so if you find someone you can talk to, that's priceless. Since it's not an interrogation, you should relax and let yourself be.
The thing about talking is that you're sharing bits and pieces of yourself with someone, and that's a connection that can lead to wonders. You click with a person, and the more you get to know them, the more you get to like them. It's the only proper way to find friends and romantic interests. So, you better keep your communication skills sharp!