People are complicated, messy individuals, especially the interesting ones. Maybe you have a fence to mend?

It’s no surprise; we often disagree with each other. Your opinion doesn’t look or sound like mine. That’s what makes the conversation worthwhile.

At work we talk about networking, connecting with others, developing contacts and exchanging information. I saw you cringe there at the very thought of another event, function or get-together where the first words you utter are “May I join you?”.

Finding a common interest may not be as hard as we make it out to be. This can be true even with people that we have not always seen eye to eye with.

Have you had breakfast this morning? Yes, me too. Do you prefer to sit down or have something on the run? Does your routine involve a coffee or do you enjoy tea?

What’s your favourite meal, recipe, restaurant? Gosh, that sounds good.

Getting to know others by striking up a conversation can be an anxiety-inducing activity unless of course, you show genuine interest.

Calling all curious people, this is your time to shine. If you are in repair-damage mode to a friendship or relationship after a disagreement or other mishap…time to mend fences.

Ask questions and be present.. Smile. Remember the traffic light rule. In the first twenty seconds, you have a green light, beyond that caution you may be monopolising the conversation and when you hit forty seconds perhaps think red light (your turn is over!).

Explore….find some common ground. Be interesting.

Tell me about you.
What was the highlight of your day today?
How does your family celebrate?
What’s your favourite way to waste time?

Let’s go.

Just a minute now.