First Contact & Small Talk

Organizer Advice

Attend a Buddytree hangout to meet potential friends

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WORKSHEETS

What tip would you recommend when it comes to making first contact and small talk?

7 Answers

have your “go-to” questions ready

Try, “How do you know _____?” “What is keeping you busy these days?” or “What brought you to this area?”

compliment and shift

Find something that you can genuinely compliment the other person on and then shift to a question so it isn’t awkward. Everyone loves a nice compliment.

be interested, and LISTEN more than you talk

Asking questions is the secret ingredient to interesting conversations. Stay away from yes/no questions. You can naturally start with easy questions that feel natural, but listen for an interesting comment to explore and build upon.

take responsibility for meeting others

Don’t wait for others to approach you. Say hello first. When you expect others to make the first move, you’ll be disappointed. And the more you do it, the more comfortable you’ll be.

don’t be the sidekick

Rather than being the shadow of the one person you already know, branch out. Meet others on your own.

make a game out of it

Trick your mind into making it seem easier and more fun. Commit to at least an hour. Plan to meet at least five people.

be an introducer

If you are talking with someone and another guest looks a little uncomfortable, invite him or her into the conversation. Remember the times when you were that uncomfortable person and try to include others.

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What's the plan?

keep it short - i.e. Let's meet up for drinks

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You are born into your family tree, but your buddytree is yours to create.

Attend a Buddytree hangout to meet some potential friends.