True or False: If someone gives short answers, avoids eye contact, and sounds annoyed, they probably want to keep talking to you!
False
You're in line at a coffee shop and notice the person next to you is wearing a hoodie with your favorite video game. What’s a friendly way to start a conversation?
I love your hoodie, that's my favorite film!
A cashier says, “Looks like you've got all the good food today!” What’s a friendly way to respond?
“Thanks! I’m really excited to try these.”
A person says: “Nice day out, huh?” You nod and walk away without saying anything.
Failed It – You didn’t engage in the conversation!
True or False: You should always try to make small talk about serious topics like politics or personal problems.
False
You sit next to someone on the first day of class. What’s something you can say to start a conversation?
How are you liking the class so far?
Someone next to you at a baseball game says, “That was a close play!” What comment or question could you say back?
“I know! Which team are you rooting for?”
You're at the mall and someone says, “I like your jacket!” You say, “Thanks! I got it online."
Nailed It – You responded positively with a related comment!
True or False: Small talk makes it easier to fit into group and social situations.
True!
You're at the grocery store checkout. What’s a friendly comment/question you can make to the cashier?
How's your day going?
Busy day huh?
Someone at a coffee shop says, “I’ve never tried that drink—do you like it?” What comment or follow-up question could you give?
“Yeah, it’s one of my favorites! Is this your first time here?"
You walk up to a stranger in a coffee shop and ask, “Hi, I like your hair! What's your name? Where do you live?"
Failed It – Asking for someone's address and name can be too personal and make the person uncomfortable. If you only said "I like your hair", that would've been great!
You should walk away or ignore the person if you're bored of the conversation.
Definitely false!
You're eating at a restaurant with your social skills friends. How can you strike up a conversation with someone sitting near you?
What are you going to order? I’m still trying to decide!
You're sitting in the waiting room at the doctor’s office, and someone next to you says, “I hate waiting here. It always feels like forever.” What’s something you could say back?
“I know, it always seems to take longer than expected. How long have you been waiting today?”
You're checking out at a grocery store and the cashier points to your chips and says, “I love these chips!"
You respond, “Yes, they’re delicious! Have you tried the other flavors?"
Nailed it!