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.
The one exception to the no-negatives rule is the weather.
If you're in the midst of a heat wave, cold snap, or torrential downpour, remarking on the unusual weather is often a good way to start a conversation.
"Excuse me, do you know what time the next session starts?"
Even if you already know the answer, asking for information can be a great way to start someone talking with you, because everyone likes to feel helpful.
But often, the most difficult conversations are moments within our everyday communication. So from introducing yourself to someone new to tripping over your words, we've pinpointed some of the most awkward conversational pratfalls and how to overcome them. Many times, the hardest part of a conversation is starting it.
I have to say I've been dissatisfied with the current self-help information on communication. Much of the material I have read focuses on how to become a more empathetic listener, problem solver or better transfer information. Very little focus is put on what is probably the most common form of communication, the conversation.