A two-word trick for better conversations

💬 Today’s tip: Use “I’m curious” to get people to open up.

Remember parties? Those gatherings of friends, sort-of friends, and total strangers you’d inevitably have to talk to? They were fun! The talking-to was also, at times, kind of awkward.

Now, as many of us find ourselves gingerly reviving our social lives with socially-distanced get-togethers, we’re once again facing that familiar old challenge: small talk. But if you’re feeling rusty, consider Dave Schools’ recommendation for the two simple words that will jump-start any conversation: “I’m curious.”

Those two words, Schools writes, are the ultimate icebreaker, inviting your conversation partner to let their guard down and bring you into their world: “You’re not being interrogative, as there’s no right or wrong answer. There’s no judgment, no ulterior motive. You simply want to learn.” Try leading with them the next time you’re asking someone a question. Listen, and see where it takes you.

📚 More from Forge on making conversation:

How To Talk to a Rando
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How to Deal When People Take Forever to Get to the Point
Read more >>

3 Ways to Rescue a Conversation That’s Going Nowhere
Read more >>

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