Striking up a conversation with people in your non-native tongue can be scary but also very important. It's the best way to learn about an industry, company or person.
Here are some tips:
TIME: It is important to be aware of your surroundings and even more so the time. We lose sight of a lot when we are trying to focus on another language. You'll have less time if you're waiting for the elevator than waiting in a long line for a cup of coffee.
Examples:
Elevator: Why are elevators so slow?
Coffee: Why do I always wait in this line? Why don't I bring my coffee to work?
BREATHE: When we stress out we don't breathe properly and then we can't think properly.
INFORMATION GATHERING: Ask open-ended questions. That'll take a little bit of the heat off of you and allow the other person to speak more.
Examples:
What do you think of the new office?
I really have been enjoying this workshop. What about you?
COMPLEMENT: We all like a good complement.
Examples:
Wow, I really like your bag, where is it from?
That is a great shirt. Where'd you get it?
WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN COMMON: Use your environment. For example, are you at the same conference, do you see them in the office building often? How about on the train?
Examples:
Hey, we seem to be on the same schedule
Do you work in the building? I notice you coming in at the same time as me frequently.
CURRENT EVENTS (but be careful) Besides politics and a few other selective things, current events can be a way to open up a conversation.
Examples:
I'm so glad the holidays are over. Now I can eat less.
More in the next post...................
“Don’t look in front of you at the insurmountable mountains, look behind you at the ones you have already conquered. ”