Everyone’s at the table, the food’s served, and then… the conversation grinds to a halt. Want to avoid awkward silences? Keep these questions handy as a cheat sheet.
- What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten, and what did it taste like?
- If you were to write a book, what would the title be?
- What’s your favorite ritual?
- What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve ever received?
- If you could trade places with a celebrity for a day, who would it be?
- What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day?
- What travel destination is at the top of your bucket list?
- What movie has made the biggest impression on you?
- What song always brings back memories?
- If you could live in another country for a year, where would you go?
- What’s the last app you downloaded, and why?
- What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
- What language would you like to learn, and why?
- What’s the most bizarre dream you can remember?
- If you had to change your name, what would you want to be called?
- What could you eat every day?
- What’s the last thing you did that you’re proud of?
And what can also help:
Remember that silences don’t have to be awkward. It’s all about how you handle them. A silence can actually give you the space to listen better and respond to the other person. The effect? Deeper conversations.
Avoid sensitive topics, like politics.
Print out the questions above and put them in a jar. Place this jar on the table during dinner. Ready-made chat jars are also available.
Come up with a topic for conversation at your dinner party. Anything goes: from books to vacations. Don’t forget to include this in your invitation.
Want to ask these questions to your dinner guests?
This article is a contribution from Schrijf-Schrijf