How to talk to someone you've never met

Having the confidence to talk to strangers is a great gift, because for most people it comes with a wave of anxiety. But you can break the ice with confidence with just a few simple techniques.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Before you speak to the person in question, think about the first thing you want to say to be prepared.

2. Make eye contact with the person in question and make a small gesture, such as a mild wave, before approaching them.

3. Being straight forward is always a good idea, so open with a true statement such as: "Hi, I'm (blank). I wanted to meet you." or "I noticed you over here and wanted to introduce myself."

4. If you are at an event ask the person how they came to be there. Perhaps you have a shared friend or hobby. This can lead to a deeper conversation.

5. Questions are always a great way to keep a conversation going. The classic "what do you do?" will always be a good ice breaker.

6. As the conversation continues remember to listen as best as you can and repeat information in your head so as to not forget it. The most important being the stranger's name, relationship to the event you are attending, and interests.

7. From here you will be an a normal conversation. If the person interests you, stick around. If not, politely excuse yourself and give the whole thing another shot with a different stranger.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember, you are just as interesting and charming as the next person, so people do want to speak to you.
• Pay attention to body language and tone to see if the stranger in question is enjoying your conversation.