Put away your phone. There’s nothing more annoying than talking to a person who is constantly checking their cell. Though you should look eager to talk to the person, don’t look too eager. Don’t lean in so close that you overwhelm the person or scare him away. Many people are turned off by a close-talker. Try to keep your hands out of your pockets, and avoid fidgeting if you can. [3] X Research source [v160969_b01]. 11 April 2019.
Remember to smile and pay attention to the person when you greet her. Don’t make it look like you’re just killing time until your real friends come along. [5] X Expert Source Judith Gottesman, MSWMatchmaker & Dating Coach Expert Interview. 19 October 2021.
It’s true: it may be hard to keep things light and fun when you’ve had a really bad day or bad week. But remember that if you’re making small talk, then this person is not your closest friend, so you should avoid talking about anything too negative or the other person will be turned off.
This can be a great way to chat with your crush. [7] X Research source [v160969_b01]. 11 April 2019.
“Professor Hoffer is hilarious. " “Ashley throws the most amazing parties. " “Can you believe all of this rain?” “I just love coming to Arbor Cafe. "
“He’s the best teacher I ever had. He’s basically the reason I’m an English major. " “I actually met Ashley last year, when Ben took me to her Great Gatsby party. " “The rain is just awful. I’m training for a marathon and had to do my long runs on the treadmill – it’s the worst. " “Whenever I’m at this cafe, I just really feel like I’m in the zone. Maybe it’s the intense drip-coffee – but seriously, I feel like I can work for hours here. "
“How about you? Are you an English major, or are you here for Professor Hoffer’s crazy stories?” “Did you go to that party, or is this your first time here? It was fun, but I drank too many mint juleps. " “How about you? Has the rain kept you from doing anything fun this week?” “Do you come here to do some work, or are you just reading for fun?”
Other person: “I’m an English major too. I’ve always wanted to be an English major, but Hoffer’s an added bonus for sure. " You: “Oh, really? What are you thinking of doing with that? It’s great to meet another person in this highly lucrative field. " Other person: “I couldn’t go to that party, but I did go to her Cinco de Mayo party last month. That party was crazy. " You: “It really was! I knew you looked familiar. How do you know Ashley? Isn’t she nuts?” Other person: “I don’t mind the rain so much, but it made it hard for me to walk my dog! That was so annoying. " You: “You have a dog too? I have a little poodle named Stella. Do you have a picture of your dog?” Other person: “I’m just here to read for fun. I can’t believe I’ve gone this long without reading The Catcher in the Rye. " You: “I love that book! Some people think it’s overrated, but I completely disagree. "
“Sweet 9ers jersey. That one’s a classic. Have you been a fan for long?” “You ran the New York Marathon too? Which year? I don’t know what I did with my t-shirt. " “What do you think about this a cappella concert tonight? I’ve seen these flyers all over campus, but I don’t know if I want to go. " “Ah, the American Pageant. That book taught me everything I needed to know about American History. Is that class as easy as it used to be?”
You: “I actually met Ashley on a Spring Break trip. We all went to Mexico with a bunch of friends. " Other person: “I remember her telling me about the trip! I was actually helping her improve her Spanish for it, but I doubt she really used it much – unless you count the phrase piña colada. " You: “You speak Spanish? That’s awesome. You could have helped me prepare for my study abroad trip to Madrid. My Spanish was okay by the end, but I could have used some help!” Other person: “I love Madrid. My grandmother actually still lives there, so I visit her almost every summer. She takes me to the Prado every Sunday. " You: “Madrid is like my favorite city! The El Grecos in the Prado are to die for. " Other person: “You like the El Grecos? I’m more of a Goya fan. " You: “Oh, really? You know, there’s actually a new movie about Goya coming out next week – I think Ethan Hawke’s in it! Want to go?” Other person: “Of course!”
You probably shouldn’t reveal your thoughts on the meaning of life, lost love, or death in a round of small-talk. Just reveal something about yourself and wait to develop a deeper bond before you get too personal. Being genuine is a great strategy when you’re talking to your crush. You might talk about something you’re genuinely interested in, mention something you genuinely like about them, or ask a question that you’re genuinely curious about. [17] X Research source [v160969_b01]. 11 April 2019.
“I’m really serious about seeing that new movie with you. Can I get your number so we can work out the details later?” “I’ve never met someone who loves The Bachelor as much as I do. My roommate and I have the best viewing parties every Monday night – can I get your number so I can send you the info?” “Maybe I’ll see you at Ashley’s next party? I hear she won’t let you in the door if you’re not wearing a real toga, so it’ll be something to see. "
“It’s been great talking to you. I’ll let you know how that paella recipe works out for me. " “I’d love to talk more about Spain, but I haven’t said hi to Nina yet, and it looks like she’s about to leave. " “Oh, there’s my best friend, Kelley. Have you met her yet? Come on, I’ll introduce you. " “I wish I could keep talking to you, but AP Calculus is calling my name. I’m sure I’ll see you soon, though. "
