How to Start Conversations

Why is proximity (Distance) important for conversations?

• People can only talk to people right next to them

• It is easier to start a conversation with people by you so you don't have to yell

• Distance doesn't matter

• I don't like being by other people so online works best to start a convo

Why does eye contact or people looking at you matter when trying to have a conversation?

• eye contact is impossible

• It shows they are already giving you their attention or interested

• It shows you their eye color

• It doesn't matter or relate to having a conversation

Help me sort some nonverbal cues so I know when a person would be open to a conversation and the sign of when someone is not open to a conversation

Groups:

(a) Signs someone is open to talk

,

(b) Signs someone may not be open to talking

• Looking distracted or disinterested
• Leaning slightly towards you

• Turning away from you
• Nodding in agreement

• Asking follow-up questions

• Making eye contact or looking at you

• Short or one-word responses
• Smiling at you

• Crossed arms
• Avoiding eye contact
• Maintaining an inviting facial expression

• They are already talking to someone else

• Using open body language

• eye on phone, computer, book

• Checking the time frequently
• They walk away

• Initiating conversation or topics

How did asking the taxi driver help deepen the conversation?

• It showed the taxi driver that the guy wasn't very smart and made the taxi driver seem better

• It showed the driver that he was interested in learning more and allows the driver to add to the conversation by answering the question

• Asking people questions doesn't help continue the conversation

• I'm not even watching the video I'm just clicking answers that look like they could be it

How could asking a question out of curiosity help build a conversation?

• It keeps the conversation interesting and allows for learning opportunities if approached with good intentions and consideration

• It annoys other people and could make some people upset

• Being curious is only good sometimes

What is rapport?

• A fact or opinion

• Your connection level with others through conversation

• A type of music

• A topic of conversation

Why does remembering people's names matter? Select all that apply

• It makes you feel good when someone remembers your name or a fact about you

• It shows people that you care and remember them

• It is mean to forget someone's name

What is one question you still have after watching the video? (ex: I am confused about ....)