How to Talk to People You Don't Know

It can be intimidating to talk to strangers. That's why many of us don't do it!
But if you don't strike up a conversation with someone you don't know from time to time, how many opportunities for great friendships are you missing? Here are some tips:

 Give someone a compliment: you don't want to sound insincere, but if you like
something about a person's clothes, bag or choice of purchase in a store, say so!
They'll be flattered.

 Talk about the situation you're both in, so you find something in common. If
you're waiting at a long line at a cash machine in the rain, share the misery!

 Find something that you'll both relate to. If you're in line at a bookstore, there's a
good chance that a comment about a book on display will start a conversation. If you're
buying fruit, say something about the ripeness of the strawberries.

 Catch someone's eye. It's easier to talk to someone you've already made a visual
connection with.

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