Some women are natural conversation starters, and some of us need more help. If you want to know how to make small talk with strangers, WoodlandsMommy.com has some tips for you! Here are 5 mommy-friendly ways to strike up a great conversation with just about anybody, whether you're super shy or bursting with confidence.
Conversation Tip # 1: Introduce Yourself.
This is one of the simplest ways to strike up a conversation. Be straightforward yet friendly. Walk up to the person with a smile and introduce yourself. Relax and let everything else follow. This strategy works even for those who are not as confident as others. Just make sure you know what to say next before making your move. For example, once the person introduces himself or herself back, you can ask them a question like "So how do you know the birthday boy?" or “How long has your daughter been dancing here?”
Conversation Tip # 2: Compliment The Other Person.
A friendly way to make small talk with strangers is by saying something nice about them or their child. Stick with the safe comments (don’t ask her about her how far along she is, even if it looks like she's 9 months pregnant), and try not to sound too rehearsed. Try a simple “That’s a beautiful dress you’re wearing!” or “Your baby’s so adorable? How old?” Another mom who's looking to reciprocate small talk will likely respond in a way to keep the conversation flowing.
Conversation Tip # 3: Ask for Help.
Asking for help is a great way to strike up a conversation. Be sure to ask questions that are easy for the other person to answer. If it’s your first time at the library storytime, for instance, and you’re not really sure where to go or what to do, seek help from another mom who looks like she knows the routine. “Does the event take place in this room?” or “Do you happen to have the time?” Sometimes the simplest of questions can turn into great small talk, especially if you follow them up with more related questions. Read body language, and take care not to become a nuisance.
Conversation Tip # 4: Ask About Their School, Church, or other Routine Meeting Place
Sometimes, you can pick up a few things about a person based on the way they look or the way they talk. One great way on how to make small talk with strangers is to ask them about it.
For example, if you see a familiar face at Whole Foods Market and you think you've seen them around town before, why don't you ask them about it. "Hey, does your daughter attend Buckalew Elementary?" If the answer is yes, you can proceed to talk school stuff (what grade/teacher/etc.?). But if the answer is a negative, you can still pick up the pieces and say, "Oh. Sorry, I thought I saw you guys around before."
Conversation Tip #5: Just smile and say “hello”
Sometimes you can’t think of anything to say (or maybe you just don’t want to). In this case, just smile and say “hello”, and let the other mom do the talking.
Learning how to make small talk with strangers is easy, especially when you get the hang of it. Don't be afraid of rejection. Small talk is just small talk. Don't set yourself up for anything more complicated than that.
