Topic Examples Inquiries that are too general So how about this weather we’ve been having? Crazy, isn’t it? I was at a fun concert a few nights ago. Those musicians brought the house down. Do you like music? I haven’t seen you in quite a while. How have you been? Hi, I’m Steve. Grew up in Montana and lived in Delaware since. Tell me about yourself. Nice to meet you; Bill from the office has told me quite a bit about you over the years. So, what’s your life story? Topics that are too personal I hear you’re studying to be a nurse. What can you tell me about this rash on my leg? I noticed your breast cancer awareness bracelet. Did you lose a loved one to the disease? What are your religious beliefs? I can’t seem to agree with any of the religious; they all get it wrong as far as I’m concerned. I’m currently in the middle of a nasty divorce. Have you ever been married? I don’t recommend it; it’s just asking for trouble. Controversial or offensive topics I’m really not a fan of the president’s new tax plan. What are your thoughts on it? Global warming seems like a hoax; it’s freezing where I live. Don’t you hate how the media lies to us? My old church recently hired a female pastor. Do you think women belong behind the pulpit? I don’t know what to think. So, how do you feel about capital punishment? It’s a complex topic, but there’s clearly a right and a wrong answer. General negativity I hate parties like this where everybody just stands around like a bunch of wallflowers. Don’t you hate it too? This is the worst city I’ve ever lived in. Boring people, bad food, no culture. I’d leave today if I could. What made you stick around so long? I can never find an interesting person to talk to. Everyone just has the same opinions. What’s your take; don’t you find every conversation boring? I am so sick of this weather. Rain, rain, rain. Day after day. And it’s freezing too! Do you like anything about this weather? What’s your profession? I really hate my job. I feel like all I do is work. Bragging about yourself That brand new Mercedes convertible parked out front is mine. What do you drive? It’s so nice to finally drive a luxury car. I bet you’ll agree? My graduating class voted me most likely to succeed. Ever since then my life has improved: perfect car, perfect house, perfect career. How was high school for you? I find that most people don’t really understand Shakespeare’s works. I’ve had to explain the genuine meaning of Hamlet several times at this party. What do you think the play means? I recently had a short story accepted to a very prestigious literary magazine. I think they’ll pay me several hundred dollars; it could lead to a book deal. Have you had any luck getting your stories published lately?