<div><p><span><i>"What did you think of that speech?" "Did you get a lot out of this workshop?" </i></span></p><p><b>Most people like knowing that others are interested in their opinions</b> and will be happy to respond.</p></div>

Solicit an opinion

<div><p><span><i>"This dip is delicious!" "Nice turnout for this event!"</i></span></p><p>There's <span>something</span><span> positive to say</span> in nearly every situation, so find it and say it. <b>Don't say something negative</b> because it's much too risky.</p></div>

Make note of something pleasant

<div><p><span>Walk up to the person, stick out your hand and say, <i>"Hi, I'm so-and-so. I just wanted to introduce myself."</i> </span></p><p><b>The fact that you went out of your way to meet will make the listener feel important</b>. It will probably make the person want to talk to you, as well.</p></div>

Simply introduce yourself

<div><p><span><i>"Excuse me, do you know what time the next session starts?"</i> </span></p><p>Even if you already know the answer, <b>asking for information can be a great way to start someone talking with you</b>, because everyone likes to feel helpful.</p></div>

Ask for information

<div><p><b>Naming someone you both know will tell the listener you are part of his or her extended social circle.</b> </p><p>Many people will begin thinking of you as someone they know or should know. Be careful, though, that their relationship with your shared acquaintance is on good terms.</p></div>

Mention a mutual acquaintance

<div><p><b>This works when you're wondering what to say to someone prominent.</b> You'll never insult someone by saying, <i>"I really love your work," or "I thought your last blog post was very insightful."</i></p></div><div><p>Three caveats: Don't fawn, don't make the mistake of critiquing the listener and only offer praise if you genuinely mean it.</p></div>

Praise the listener

<div><p><span><i>Does the listener come from the same town or region like you? Did you attend the same high school or college? </i></span></p><p><b>Any common ground is a good way to start someone talking</b>, especially if you use it as a reason to ask for information or advice.</p></div>

Bring up a shared experience

<div><p><span><i>"Could you reach that item on the top shelf for me?" </i></span></p><p><span><b>Requests for assistance are another way to make someone feel helpful.</b></span><span> Just make sure whatever you ask for is something the listener can provide without much inconvenience.</span></p></div>

Ask for assistance

<div><p><i>"That scarf is a great color on you."</i> <b>Most people like it when others appreciate their taste</b>, so they will likely want to engage with you.</p></div><div><p>Don't comment on the listener's own physical appearance - it has the potential to be creepy.</p></div><div><h2></h2></div>

Compliment the listener's apparel or accessories

<div><p><span>The one exception to the no-negatives rule is the weather. </span></p><p>If you're in the midst of a heat wave, cold snap, or torrential downpour, remarking on the unusual <b>weather is often a good way to start a conversation.</b></p></div><div><h2></h2></div>

Comment on the weather

<div><p><span><i>"Can I help you carry that large box?" </i></span></p><p>The listener will <b>be inclined to like you and trust you</b> because you've helped out. Be careful not to be intrusive or excessive.</p></div>

Offer assistance

You're at a party or a conference or just walking along the street when you see someone you would like to talk with. It might be someone you've admired from afar, someone who might be a good customer or investor for your company, or someone you simply like the looks of.

Solicit an opinion

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Barriers to reaching out

Be less aware of popular conventions

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