How to start a conversation as an introvert can be challenging. Introverts generally like staying in the comfort of their own silence most times. Unfortunately, the world does not exactly work around that.
In order to get what you need, advance in your career, make friends, and/or romantic relationships, you need to communicate. When around people you work with or school with, communication is also very necessary.
This doesn’t necessarily mean being a chatterbox. Small talks help people know more about you. They tend to lead to deeper conversations but the problem is, as an introvert I do not like small talks. Sometimes deeper conversations are a nightmare as well.
Introverts usually just want silence and talking only when they need to. When you constantly have to respond to someone, it can leave us mentally drained. But this doesn’t take away the fact that communication must happen.
So how can you navigate small talk as an introvert? These tips help you know what to say and how to go about small talks.
1. Start a conversation by going with someone
Sometimes the best way to start a conversation is not having to start it. Coming with someone would eliminate having to endure the awkward silence. But who could it be?
It could be your more extroverted or ambivert friend. Someone who doesn’t mind starting a conversation and you can jump right in. And the great part is you can leave whenever you want.
People have heard you speak and that usually lasts for a while till you’re mentally prepared to socialize again. Sometimes you might enjoy the conversation and wouldn’t want it to end.
2. Let People Talk About Themselves
Although introverts aren’t the best at talking, we do pretty okay when we have to listen. So, you can use this to your advantage by asking questions and letting people talk about themselves.
When asking questions, make sure to opt for more open-ended questions than close-ended ones. Closed-ended questions kill the conversation so save it for last. Open-ended questions however leave room for curiosity.
If you ask questions, ensure to answer the questions yourself. It saves the conversation from feeling like an interview and the other party would feel a lot more comfortable.
3. Get To Know Your Similarities
One way to get to know your similarities is by simply asking unique questions that apply to you too. Like asking if they like something you do or have seen a show you have. This gives you an added advantage as you have information to share
You can also recommend activities for them and listen to them recommend to you. It doesn’t matter if you want it or not. It’s just to keep the conversation going. Sometimes small talks are just that.
You can talk about the traffic, weather, books. Whatever it is and find similarities and differences between you and other people. It might be draining sometimes but it gives way to more meaningful conversations.
4. Find Other Introverts
If there’s one thing about introverts, is they are very comfortable with silence. So maybe you should surround yourself with them when at a party. How do you find them? They are probably standing alone, sitting alone, or just quiet.
It’s usually hard to tell as some introverts try to talk as much as possible but if you pay close attention, it would be easy to decipher. You would just be saving yourself but for them as well.
Most introverts tend to share a good number of things in common. So be assured you’d have what to talk s out in a situation where you want to talk.
5. Do Not Overthink It
It’s only natural to overthink your first impression but you must understand it gets better with practice. As long as you practice, no matter how daunting it can be, you will be just fine.
Plus, people can know when you’re trying. Your goal isn’t to be the center of attention but to have enough conversation to get by. So tell us what your perfect ice breaker is as an introvert.
