Sometimes, conversations may seem doomed from the start, especially if you feel like you have nothing to talk about. When you hit a dead end, keep these tips in mind: Top 5 Things to Remember 1. Ask open-ended questions 2. Keep the conversation going with small talk 3. Be aware of your internal monologue, and try to keep it positive 4. Respond thoughtfully to awkward or silent moments 5. Maintain a good equilibrium of comments and questions ________________ There are also a few foolproof topics that can usually jump-start any conversation: Time, Date, or Season 1. I can’t believe it’s already January! Did you make any New Year’s Resolutions? 2. I hate when we switch from daylight savings time to standard time. It gets dark so early, and it means I can’t go running after work. What have you been doing to stay active? 3. It’s been so hot out, and my apartment doesn’t have an air conditioner. How have you been staying cool? 4. The start of the school year always creeps up on me. Have you started back-to-school shopping yet? Location 1. This hotel has such a nice view! How’s the view from your room? 2. I’m excited to try this new restaurant. Have you ever been here before? What did you think of it? 3. I’ve just moved to the area. Any tips on fun things to do over the weekend? 4. We just got back from a trip to San Francisco to visit our daughter. Do you travel often? Weather 1. It’s nice that we haven’t gotten much snow this year. I’ve never been able to stand cold weather. Do you enjoy the snow? 2. We’ve been going to the pool a lot lately since it’s been so hot out. Have you been able to swim at all this week? 3. I love it when the weather starts to get cooler in the fall. It’s so nice to be able to wear sweaters and boots again! 4. Spring is definitely my favorite season. What’s your favorite time of year? Pop Culture 1. I went to an awesome concert yesterday! Do you like country music? Who’s your favorite singer? 2. My family and I went to the Eagles game last weekend. It was a blast! Who’s your favorite football team? 3. I couldn’t believe what happened on last week’s episode of Mad Men! Do you watch the show? What’s your favorite TV series? 4. Are you going to the Zac Brown Band concert tomorrow? I saw them live last year, and they were great! Upcoming Events 1. I go visit my parents on the East Coast every Thanksgiving. Will you be traveling over the holidays? 2. What are your plans for Super Bowl Sunday? My friends and I usually have a big barbecue and watch the game. 3. Are you going to the company Holiday Party this weekend? I hear there’s going to be a live band this year. 4. My son’s birthday party is this weekend. I always forget how much planning it takes! What do you do for your kids’ birthday parties?