3 Things to Say to Break the Ice

By Tobi Schwartz-Cassell

How many times have you been to a party, standing in front of someone, and no words come out? From either of your mouths?

Thanks to one of my favorite blogs, PureWow, I now know five things to say to lift the awkwardness. I’m borrowing three of them (with a bonus fourth at the end of this article), and adding my own thoughts. So if you want to see all five plus their explanations, click here.

1. “Wow, what an interesting (insert piece of clothing). Where’s it from?”

This suggested line is based on the fact that, as a whole, people like to talk about themselves. So if this line doesn’t feel right to you, try asking them what they do, where they’re from, or how they know the party host.

2. “What are you up to this weekend?”

As the PureWow article points out, if the party’s on a Monday or Tuesday, you need to change this question to “What did you do over the weekend?” But again, more than likely, this line of questioning will give you a hint about your conversation partner, and that can open up a whole new world of dialogue. So if she’s going to the shore, you can ask her which town is her favorite, what restaurant does she recommend, or does she know of a great bed & breakfast there?

3. “What’s your favorite kind of cheese?”

This usually works best when standing next to a cheese platter. And granted, it won’t work for everyone. Especially if you’re talking to a person who’s lactose intolerant or vegan. But then again, either of those scenarios opens up another line of questioning. As long as you don’t mind hearing about her GI tract.

Probably the best suggestion this article has is a good exit line. What can you say when you are so bored that you just HAVE to break away? Here are some suggestions….

1. “Can you excuse me? To be continued!”
2. “Gasp! There’s someone I’ve been trying to get in touch with. Be right back!”
3. “Forgive me but I REALLY have to go to the bathroom!” Too much information? Yes. A great way to make your escape? Yes!

What line do you use to either start a conversation or end one? Please comment below!

♥

PS: As many of you know, I’ve partnered with the Cherry Hill Health and Racquet Club. My favorite spot to work out there is the Women-Only Fitness Center. Check it out with your free 14-Day Pass.