Have you ever been in a situation where you’re sitting across from someone, maybe on a date or a new colleague at lunch, and your mind goes as blank as a freshly erased whiteboard? Fear not! Today, we’re diving into the art of conversation – specifically, good questions to ask when getting to know someone.
Table of Contents
The Icebreaker Phase – Good Questions to Ask
First things first, let’s break the ice. But how do we do that without sounding like a broken record? Well, here are a few questions that can thaw even the chilliest of encounters:
- “If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would they be?”
Ah, the classic. This question not only opens up avenues for interesting discussions but also gives you a sneak peek into their interests and values.
- “What’s the most unexpected thing that’s happened to you this week?”
This one’s great because it’s open-ended and can lead to some hilarious or insightful stories.
- “What’s your go-to karaoke song?”
Let’s face it: anyone who has a go-to karaoke song has a story, and probably a good one.
The Deep Dive – Good Questions to Ask
After you’ve broken the ice, it’s time to dive a little deeper. These questions are great for understanding who someone truly is beyond their LinkedIn profile.
- “What’s a book that you could read over and over again?”
This tells you about their interests and possibly their outlook on life. Bonus points if it’s a book you’ve read too – instant conversation!
- “What’s something you’re really passionate about and why?”
You can learn a lot about someone by what ignites their fire.
- “If you could change one thing about your past, what would it be?”
A bit more personal, this question can open doors to their background and experiences.
The Fun Part – Good Questions to Ask
Now, let’s mix in some fun. After all, getting to know someone shouldn’t feel like an interrogation.
- “If you were an animal, which one would you be and why?”
Not only is this question amusing, but it also offers insight into how they see themselves.
- “What’s the silliest fear you have?”
This can lead to some giggles and shared silly fears.
- “What’s the worst hairstyle you’ve ever had?”
Everyone has had a questionable haircut. This is a great way to share funny stories and old photos.
The Conclusion Phase – Good Questions to Ask
As the conversation winds down, it’s nice to round off with some reflective or forward-looking questions:
- “What’s something you’re looking forward to in the next year?”
This can reveal their goals and aspirations.
- “If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?”
It’s both reflective and telling of their life experiences.
- “How do you like to spend a day off?”
Knowing how someone relaxes can tell you a lot about them.
You May Also Like:
- Good Icebreaker Questions 101: Mastering the Art of First Conversations
- 18+ Fun and Engaging Questions to Ask People
- 50+ Good Questions To Get To Know Someone Deeply
- 15+ Engaging Questions to Ask on a First Date
- 21 Questions To Ask Guys That Reveal More Than Just His Favorites
- Discover 50+ Questions To Keep A Conversation Going and Never Hit a Dead End
Conclusion
Getting to know someone is an art form sprinkled with a bit of science and a dash of humor. It’s about asking the right questions and genuinely listening to the answers. Remember, every person you meet is a doorway into another world. So go ahead, open the door with a question and step into the fascinating world of another human being. Happy conversing!
Every great conversation starts with a question. So, still questioning and staying curious!
FAQs about Good Questions to Ask:
How can I keep the conversation flowing?
The key is to listen actively and show genuine interest. Follow-up questions are your best friend!
What if we have nothing in common?
Sometimes, finding common ground is less about shared interests and more about shared experiences. Ask about their experiences and share yours.
How can I make a word cloud engaging during a conversation?
With AhaSlides, you can easily create and share a word cloud. Ask them to add words that describe their ideal weekend, for instance. It’s interactive, fun, and a unique way to learn about someone.
What should I avoid asking?
Steer clear of overly personal or sensitive topics, especially if you’re just getting to know the person.
How do I know if the other person is interested in the conversation?
Look for non-verbal cues like eye contact, smiling, and open body language. If they’re asking you questions in return, that’s a good sign!
