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NICHOLAS BOOTHMAN
unwanted conversations can be politely avoided with a
brief answer and a curt smile. If they still insist on
talking, a few stronger words may be necessary.
Your instincts are important, as are the non-verbal
clues you pick up. Someone reading a book or tablet,
listening to headphones, or crossing their arms and
legs is not inviting a conversation. Be sensitive to the
fact that some people may have a history of obnoxious
intrusions, so if your attempts at conversation aren't
reciprocated, back away gracefully.
Hunt for Common Ground
Once you make the move and speak up, try to find
some common ground. Common ground is the holy
grail of talking to strangers. The moment you find it,
you have a bond. The pressure is off and you can share
your stories and your ideas and your casual chit chat.
The quicker you find things in common, the faster
the connection. To do this, get them talking. The easiest
way to get someone talking is to ask them what they
think about something. If you’re at a convention, ask
them what they think about the transportation, the
hotel, the hours, their first impressions of the place. “Is
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