How to start an English language conversation with anyone!!
As
an English teacher, one of the most common questions I am asked is: “How can I improve my English?” My answer is always the same: spend more time speaking in English. Here are three ways to start an English language conversation with anyone:
SMILE SMILE SMILE SMILE SMILE SMILE
Always start with a SMILE!
1. How is your day going?
I use this question VERY regularly. It’s simple and easy, and opens the door for a conversation. You’ll be surprised by how much information some people give you in response to this simple question.
For example:
You: “How is your day going?”
Coffee shop employee: “It’s going okay. How about yourself?”
This then gives you the opportunity to practice telling this person about your day or to ask another question.
2. Did you do anything fun last weekend?” / “Any exciting plans this coming weekend?”
Depending on which day of the week it is, you can use one of the phrases above. You can even use this phrase after you ask, “How’s your day going?”
For example:
You: “How is your day going?”
NS (native speaker): “It’s going okay.”
You: “Do you have any exciting plans this weekend?”
NS: “Yes, actually it’s my husband’s birthday. We’re going to have a big party.”
Most people don’t want to sound boring, so if you ask them about their plans, most of the time you’ll get a good answer.
3. Compliments
Everyone loves a compliment, and it can be a great way to start a conversation. Find something that you really like about the person you’d like to speak to, such as their clothes, their hairstyle or their shoes, and tell them about it.
For example:
You: “I really like your glasses.”
NS: “Oh, thank you!”
You: “How is your day going?”
It’s that simple. You don’t have to say much at all to start an English language conversation. And, even if the conversation ends up being a short one, it will help you as an English speaker.
And remember to always SMILE!!
Download the HelloTalk app to join the conversation.