Having trouble finding a conversation starter that will lead to an interesting, engaging discussion? Here are some subjects you can bring up to stimulate noteworthy conversation.
Recipes
Everyone loves food, but everyone has their own opinions about what and when to consume. Thus, mentioning food recipes leads to a conversation that allows everyone to participate in the discussion. In order to smoothly transition into the discussion, you can begin by saying something along the lines of, "Have you ever had Rhubarb Coffee Cake?" You can use their answer to lead into a talk about the last time you consumed the treat, or even details about your favorite Rhubarb Coffee Cake recipe. Likely, the other people will jump in with their own recipes, and from there, the conversation can move onto other topics. Not only will you stimulate an interesting discussion, but you may discover new recipes that you can add to your stash of potential meals.
Restaurants
Just as people have recipes that they're willing to share with the public, almost everyone has a favorite restaurant. Rather than rely on stale topics, try springing off a conversation by relating your latest adventure to the local McDonalds or the new café on the corner of the block.
The Economy
For a slightly juicer topic, try to mention something about the economy. You can start the conversation by saying something like, "Have you heard that gas prices are expected to hit five dollars next month?" Because everyone finds the rising gas prices annoying, the people you're trying to engage in conversation will likely be passionate about the subject. The conversation may lead into a heated discussion about political candidates, the severity of the nearing recession, or even the downfall of mankind.
The Latest Google Graphic
If the economy is too heavy a topic, try talking about the latest graphic on the Google page. This is an ideal topic around a holiday when the Google logo varies from the norm. This may lead into a talk about the cleverness of website designers or the affect of the internet on modern day society.
If you're among a younger crowd, try mentioning something about Facebook. It can be a humorous group that you recently joined, a unique application, or a rant about Facebook's recent changes. You're not the only one addicted to Facebook.
An Interesting Fact
If none of the above subjects interest you, try something completely random. Instead of focusing on a single topic, throw out a fact. When the silence becomes awkward, say something along the lines of, "Did you know that right handed people live longer than left handed people?" If that bores you, try something like, "Did you know that Coca-Cola was once made from cocaine? Did you know that humans can get vitamin D by exposing their body to sunlight?" Interesting facts will amuse people, and they can take a conversation to a whole new level.
