By guest writer Jackson McMahan
For many autistic individuals, beginning a conversation can sometimes feel like stepping into a disorienting maze of unwritten rules and subtle cues. Each social setting, whether it's a casual get-together or a more formal environment, presents its own opportunities for interaction with unique challenges. In addition, there’s also the question of what one talks about in these settings as a discussion between friends will differ from a discussion between office co-workers.
This blog post is not about how autistic individuals can improve their conversational skills. Instead, it will list different conversation starters for a variety of settings. By offering a curated list of prompts, the aim is to simplify the initiation of dialogues, making it more accessible and less daunting to start a conversation in various social contexts.
I invite you to identify your favorites, maybe add them to a note in your phone so you always have them available, and try them out in different scenarios! The more you start conversations, the more comfortable you’ll get with it, and soon you will be starting conversations everywhere!
General Conversation Starters
"What's something you're passionate about?"
Asking an open-ended question like this encourages individuals to open up about their passions. It could be a cherished hobby, a cause they're deeply invested in, or a project that's capturing their attention. This approach not only initiates conversation but also allows for a deeper understanding of what truly motivates and excites your speaking partner.
"What's a book, movie, or TV show you've enjoyed recently?"
Entertainment topics like movies, music, and books are widely appealing and can easily engage people. Discussing these subjects can not only reveal shared tastes and preferences but also serves as a starting point for deeper conversations. In addition, these discussions also often bring new recommendations, helping people find new interests.
"What's one of your favorite memories from the past year?"
Reflecting on positive experiences brightens conversations. These memories create a pleasant atmosphere that promotes positivity. Such exchanges can be uplifting for everyone involved.
"What's a piece of advice you've found to be particularly valuable?"
Sharing advice opens a window into different viewpoints. It provides a glimpse into others' life experiences, offering lessons and insights that might not have been considered before. This exchange of advice enhances group wisdom and strengthens connections through shared learning.
Conversation Starters with Friends
"Remember when we [shared experience]? That was awesome. We should do something like that again!"
Reflecting on shared experiences can bring back fond memories. It often leads to lively conversations about the past. This can pave the way for making new plans together.
"I've been really into [hobby/activity] lately. Have you ever tried it?"
Introducing new hobbies or activities can invigorate a friendship. It adds excitement and opens up opportunities for shared experiences. Engaging in these activities together not only diversifies your experiences but also helps create lasting, memorable moments that strengthen the friendship.
"I was thinking about what you said the other day about [topic]. It got me wondering about [related question]. What do you think?"
Following up on previous conversations demonstrates that you value others' opinions. It shows a genuine interest in continuing discussions. This can deepen connections and encourage more open dialogue.
"I need some advice on [situation]. What are your thoughts on it?"
Asking for advice shows trust in someone's judgment and wisdom, deepening your connection. It invites input and values the other person's perspective, strengthening bonds. This approach can also be used in low-stakes situations, such as choosing items in a store.
"What's something you've always wanted to do together but we've never gotten around to?"
This question can spark ideas for future adventures or group activities. It encourages brainstorming enjoyable shared experiences. Such dialogue can set the stage for exciting plans.
Conversation Starters with Family
"How have you been feeling about [recent family event or change]?"
Addressing recent events creates a space for sharing feelings and perspectives. It develops an environment of mutual support. This openness can strengthen bonds through empathy and understanding.
"How did you and [family member] meet? I’d love to hear the story from your perspective."
Asking about family relationships, such as your parents' meeting, can uncover touching or amusing stories. These tales might be new to you. Such questions often bring out cherished memories and anecdotes.
"What’s one thing you wish you had known when you were my age?"
This question encourages the sharing of advice and insights, leading to meaningful exchanges. It taps into wisdom that spans generations, bridging the gap between different age groups. Such interactions enrich understanding and perspective.
"I’ve been feeling [specific emotion or situation] lately. Have you ever experienced something similar?"
Sharing personal experiences and seeking advice within the family fosters emotional closeness. It builds a foundation for mutual support. This approach strengthens familial bonds through shared understanding and empathy.
Educational Setting Conversation Starters
"What's been your favorite class or subject so far, and why?"
This question prompts the sharing of academic interests. It can spark discussions about specific fields of study or notable teachers. Such conversations enrich understanding and connections in educational contexts.
"Have you worked on any interesting projects or research lately?"
Inviting others to share their academic projects opens discussions on methodologies and findings. It delves into how their work applies in real-world contexts. These conversations can be both informative and inspiring.
"What are your strategies for managing study time and coursework?"
Discussing study habits facilitates the sharing of tips and strategies. It encourages a collaborative approach to academic success. Exchanges like this can be mutually beneficial, enhancing learning outcomes.
"How do you see your current studies impacting your future career or life goals?"
This question connects academic pursuits to long-term aspirations. It prompts discussions on personal and professional development. Such dialogues can be insightful, mapping out pathways to future goals.
"Are there any extracurricular activities or clubs you've found to be really valuable during your time here?"
This introduces discussions on balancing academics with other interests. It highlights the benefits of campus involvement. These conversations emphasize the value of a well-rounded educational experience.
Professional Setting Conversation Starters
"How did you start your career in [their field or position]?"
This question demonstrates interest in one's professional career. It can unearth insights about experiences and motivations. These questions encourage deeper understanding and connection.
"Are there any work projects you're currently excited about?"
Encouraging colleagues to share their passions invites insight into their professional interests. It provides a glimpse into their current tasks. This promotes a deeper understanding and camaraderie in the workplace.
"Have you come across any interesting industry news or trends lately?"
Keeping the conversation field-relevant encourages discussions about its impact on your work. It encourages exploring potential changes and challenges. This focus ensures the conversation remains professionally enriching.
"How do you like to unwind after a busy week at work?"
This lighter question can segue into discussions about common interests outside work. It's a method of balancing one’s professional and personal lives in the workplace. This balance can result in a more relaxed yet engaging conversation.
Online Interactions
"I'm currently exploring [topic] and noticed you have some experience in it. Would you mind sharing some advice or resources that helped you?"
Asking for advice or resources can spark productive exchanges. It facilitates the sharing of valuable information. Questions like this one often lead to mutually beneficial conversations.
"I'm trying to put together a list of [books/movies/music] on [theme]. Do you have any recommendations?"
Asking for recommendations reveals someone's tastes. It opens the door to mutual exchanges of favorites. Through this dialogue, shared passions emerge, laying the foundation for a deeper relationship.
"I read your piece on [platform] about [topic]. It really made me think about [specific point]. How did you come to this conclusion?"
Thoughtfully engaging with someone's work shows respect for their creativity and intellect. You signal you appreciate their ideas. This respect encourages more detailed and meaningful discussions.
"I noticed we're both part of [group/community]. Have you been involved in any interesting discussions or projects here lately?"
This approach helps establish common ground. It opens up conversations about shared community experiences. Such dialogue fosters a sense of connection and belonging.
"I'm curious, what's your take on [trending topic]? I've heard so many different opinions and would love to hear yours."
Trending topics serve as effective icebreakers when they align with shared interests. They can instantly engage both parties. This relevance ensures the conversation starts on common ground, facilitating a smoother exchange.
Conclusion
Navigating social interactions can be a complex feat. Each conversation helps build stronger connections and grow your social circle. Embracing your unique perspective while adapting to various social settings can transform seemingly daunting interactions into opportunities for growth and understanding.
The conversation starters provided here are not just tools to break the ice. Instead, they are tools to deeper, more meaningful interactions that can enrich personal and professional lives. They are invitations to share, learn, and grow in understanding both of oneself and of others. By approaching conversations with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to engage, autistic individuals can confidently navigate the social landscape.
Remember, the essence of conversation lies in the exchange of ideas, experiences, and emotions. It's about finding common ground, sharing a part of yourself, and being open to the perspectives of others. As you continue to practice and refine your conversational skills, you'll find that the world is rich with opportunities for connection, understanding, and friendship.