HOW TO

FOLLOW A
CONVERSATION
In the workplace, you can choose a wide variety of topics as long as they
are appropriate for the environment. Conversation starters with
colleagues or professional contacts will look different than those with
new friends or acquaintances. Your initial efforts could start a
conversation that will help you build valuable relationships with
coworkers and colleagues.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE BEST CONVERSATION

STARTERS :

1 ASK FOR INFORMATION

A great way to start a conversation is to ask for information from the
person you want to talk to. This is an effective, natural way to build
rapport with someone quickly. Even if you already know the answer
to your question, it is still a great way to approach someone if you
cannot think of another topic.

2 PAY A COMPLIMENT
Giving someone a compliment can liven their day and boost
their confidence. You can pick something about the person
you like and mention why you like it.

COMMENT ON SOMETHING
3 PLEASANT
You can usually find something positive to say about an
event or situation. The occasion could have been the last
office happy hour or a game that was on the night before. If
the person shares your views, you are on your way to an
engaging conversation.

4 INTRODUCE YOURSELF
While this may not be suitable for every situation, it is a
straightforward way of showing you are interested in
meeting someone. If you just started a new job and have not
met someone in another department yet, you can approach
them and introduce yourself.

5 OFFER HELP
If you find yourself in a position to assist a person you want
to talk to, seize the moment and offer them help. Offering
help can make you likable and earn the trust of the other
person, especially when you show a genuine concern.

6 ASK FOR HELP

Requesting help is another effective conversation starter. It works because it makes
the other person feel helpful, especially if it’s something they can provide easily. If
someone does you a favor, they may be more likely to think of you in a favorable light
and trust you. Asking for help can help you start a friendly conversation, but make
sure your request is convenient for the other party.

7 MENTION A SHARED EXPERIENCE

If you want to talk to someone who you know shares
something in common with you, you can always find a topic as
a talking point. Your shared experiences make getting along
easier, and that aids the flow of the conversation and building
of the relationship.

8 ASK AN OPINION
Soliciting other people’s opinions shows you value and are interested in
what they have to say. If they are familiar with the topic, many people
will happily respond to your questions, and it is a perfect way to get a
conversation started. When asking an opinion, choose topics relevant
to the moment.

Research on this article is done with the help of Heath Thomas, a health technology
expert teaching at University of Louisiana.