Questions to Ask Someone You Just Met

Introduction

Meeting someone for the first time can be an intimidating experience. It can be difficult to know what to say and how to make a good impression. Having some questions ready to ask can help you break the ice and make the conversation flow more freely.

Questions About Background

To get to know someone better, it can be helpful to ask questions about their background. This can include questions about where they're from, where they went to school, and what they like to do in their free time:

• Where are you from originally?
• What school did you go to?
• What do you do for fun?
• Do you have any hobbies?
• How long have you been living here?

Questions About Interests

Asking questions about someone's interests can be a great way to start a conversation. You can ask about their favorite books, movies, music, or sports teams:

• What kind of books do you like to read?
• What’s your favorite movie?
• What kind of music do you like?
• Who’s your favorite sports team?

Questions About Work

If you know that the person you're speaking with is working, or if the conversation moves in that direction, asking some questions about their work can be a good way to keep the conversation going:

• What kind of work do you do?
• How long have you been working there?
• What do you like most about your job?
• What do you like least about your job?

Questions About Family

Talking about family can be a great way to get to know someone and show that you're interested in their life. Here are some questions you can ask about their family:

• Do you have any siblings?
• Do you have any children?
• What are your parents like?
• How often do you get to see your family?

Questions About Travel

If you know the person you're speaking with has traveled, asking them about their travels can be a great way to start a conversation. Here are some questions you can ask about their travels:

• Where have you traveled to?
• What was your favorite place to visit?
• What was the most interesting thing you saw while traveling?
• What was the best food you ate while traveling?

Conclusion

Meeting someone for the first time can be daunting, but having some questions ready to ask can help break the ice and make the conversation flow more freely. Questions about the person's background, interests, work, family, and travels can all be great conversation starters.