Bridging Yourself with Others: Having a Conversation

Start out with small talk Ask a question that just about anyone can answer… How was your weekend? How are you? How was your day today? That’s a cool shirt. Where did you get it? What are you doing this weekend? Say the person’s name if you know it.

Start out with small talk Ask a question that just about anyone can answer… How was your weekend, Lisa? How are you, Maria? How was your day today, Dad? That’s a cool shirt. Where did you get it, Michael? What are you doing this weekend, Joey? Say the person’s name if you know it.

Start out with small talk Answer the question with more than one word. Which answer is better? Why? Thanks. Old Navy. That’s a cool shirt. Where did you get it, Joey? Thanks, Michael. I got it at Old Navy last week. I really like striped shirts, and this one has my two favorite colors—red and blue!

Start out with small talk Now you try it out. Now, let’s switch. Partner 1, ask your friend, “ _____, how was your day?” Partner 2, answer it with lots of words. Partner 2, ask your friend, “ _____, did you like your pizza?” Partner 1, answer it with lots of words.

Keep going with small talk. Say something back about what your friend says. I know what you mean… What do you mean? That’s awesome! That happened to me once, too… I love (or hate) when that happens… Use lots of words. Say your friend’s name. Look in your friend’s eyes.

Keep going with small talk Now you try it out. Now, let’s switch. Partner 1, ask your friend, “How was your weekend, ___?” Partner 2, answer it with lots of words. Partner 1, say more about what your friend said. (Look in his or her eyes.) Partner 2, ask your friend, “What are you doing tonight, __?” Partner 1, answer it with lots of words. Partner 2, say more about what your friend said. (Look in his or her eyes.

Finishing up your conversation. Start to wrap it up when you think you’re done. It was nice talking to you. I have to be home soon. Let’s talk tomorrow! I’m glad I bumped into you. When can I see you again? I have to go. Can I talk to you later? Glad you had a great day…Sorry you had such a bad day.

Now you try it out. Now, let’s switch. Partner 1, say to your friend, “It was nice talking to you.” Partner 2, say something back and end the conversation. Partner 2, say to your friend, “I’m glad I bumped into you. See you tomorrow.” Partner 1, say something back and end the conversation. Finishing up your conversation.

Bridging Yourself with Others: Having a Conversation