Conversation Starters

Conversation starters can lead the way to meaningful conversations. A study by social psychology researcher Arthur Aron at Stony Brook University revealed that 36 questions (available at Greater Good) can lead to closer relationships.

1. The thing you most like about the work you do/have done?
2. Do you have a project that you are proud of?
3. What is your favorite productivity tip or app?
4. What is your favorite game to play?
5. Who was your favorite teacher and why?
6. What is something you wished you had learned in school but didn’t?
7. How can education be improved?
8. Your favorite place to go?
9. Best trip you ever took?
10. The most interesting place you’ve ever been?
11. What is your favorite healthy thing to eat?
12. What was the best advice you ever received?
13. Best compliment you ever received?
14. What is one of your biggest strengths?
15. What super power would you like to have?
16. What do you love to talk about?
17. What causes you to experience flow?
18. Is there something you’ve never done that you’d like to try?
19. Best gift you ever received?
20. Best gift you have given?
21. Nicest thing anyone ever did for you?
22. What would tell your 12 year old self if you could?
23. What is a favorite memory of your childhood?
24. Do you have a dream that you’ll always remember?
25. When have you been happiest in life?
26. What inspires you or gives you hope?
27. What makes you feel peaceful?
28. What social issue or cause would you most like to improve?
29. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve ever overcome?
30. What would your future self tell you to do now?
31. What person (that you know or someone famous) most exemplifies courage or integrity?

Download 31 Great Conversation Starters plus 12 weekly questions for close relationships at Don’t Wait, Relate.

See more ideas at Conversation Bingo at A Networking Game Card and learn more about communication.

RESOURCES

• Conversation Starters Pinterest Board
• Great Questions from StoryCorps
• Three questions to ask to know if someone has long-term potential at Lifehacker

Apps
• Beyond Small Talk (see How to Have Better Conversations)
• Big Talk, card decks at weshouldgettogether.com (see book by Kat Vellos)

About dailyplanit

I seek to create order from the chaos of complex information. Join me at the Daily PlanIt to gain insights, inspiration, and information to increase skills for a better life. I unlock the power of teaching reading with phonics in the pursuit of literacy at www.phonicspow.com. In my spare time I explore books and movies, often choosing titles available on both screen and page.