Have you ever been to a holiday event without knowing many people there? Yeahโ€ฆ there can definitely be some moments of standing around or awkward silence. Luckily, there are ways you can create conversation without stepping on anyoneโ€™s toes โ€“ here are some ways you can do so!

1.ย ย ย ย  Remind yourself itโ€™s not awkward

Meeting new people at events is typical, especially during the holidays. Approaching someone for a little chat doesnโ€™t need to be weird! The situation will only be awkward if you make it awkward. Go into the conversation with confidence, energy, and a good attitude. And hopefully, theyโ€™ll return the favor!

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2.ย ย ย  Introduce yourself

This is clearly self-explanatory but itโ€™s always good to let people know who you are and a little bit about yourself. Start with your name, mention a little fun fact about yourself, and toss the conversation their way.

Smiling Friends In Discussion Before Holiday Dinner Party

 

3.ย ย ย  Break the ice

A good olโ€™ fashioned ice breaker never hurt anybody! Think of some questions you can ask, like what TV show are you binge-watching right now? Or what are some of your favorite movies of all time? Who knows, you may discover a new film to watch next time you have a night in.

4.ย ย ย  Follow up about another topic

See a familiar face? This is the perfect time to follow up and see what theyโ€™ve been up to. Referencing something relevant to your previous conversation always helps, like how their new dog is doing!

See a familiar face? This is the perfect time to follow up and see what theyโ€™ve been up to. Referencing something relevant to your previous conversation always helps, like how their new dog is doing!

Important note โ€“ stick to broad questions!

The worst feeling is when you ask someone about their relationship, and they arenโ€™t with that person anymore (that is definitely awkward). When you ask broader questions about work or hobbies, youโ€™ll most likely steer clear of uncomfortable territory.

 

Everyone Comes Home For Christmas

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5.ย ย ย  Keep it light

Thereโ€™s a time and place for intense or controversial conversations, but holiday parties arenโ€™t it. We get it – thereโ€™s always that one uncle who wants to โ€˜stir the potโ€™ and bring up politics but try not to get caught up in those shenanigans.

3 Great Conversation Starters

Sometimes just starting the conversation can be a little difficult โ€“ you may feel weird bringing up random topics but here are some questions that can start a solid conversation:

1.ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  How was your year?

  • Start a conversation with a question asking them to reflect on their year as a whole โ€“ such as, what is your favorite thing youโ€™ve done or place youโ€™ve visited?

2.ย ย ย ย ย ย  What are your plans for the holidays?

  • Whether itโ€™s trekking from one party to the next, or going out of town with family, people always have a lot going on during the holiday season. Tell someone about your fun plans and their response will kick off a conversation!

 

Three Friends In Discussion Before Holiday Dinner Party

 

3.ย ย ย ย ย ย  Any refreshments, in particular, I should try?

  • If you havenโ€™t tried any food yet, spot a guest with a plate and ask which appetizer they recommend. This is such an easy way to start a conversation, and itโ€™s all thanks to food!

 

Reference: https://blog.aarons.com/lifestyle/guide-small-talk