Lunch hour lessons July 17, 2006
Posted by Niels in : Personal , trackbackIt’s hard to start a conversation with strangers. It’s especially hard when the strangers already know each other and you’re the odd man out. But there’s a secret. I’ve been hearing this for ten months and I’m just barely beginning to internalize it:
People like talking to strangers.
Imagine yourself eating lunch with your friends. You’re having the same boring conversations you have everyday. “So what did you do at work this week?” “Any plans for the weekend?” “Nice weather we’re having, huh?”
Then a stranger sits down next to you with a big smile on his face: “Hey guys, I’m ___. Is this the best meatloaf you’ve ever had or what? All it needs are some walnuts like my mom’s meatloaf and it would be perfect!” Boring topics are forgotten - there’s someone new talking about something new!
I just started a new job, and I don’t know anyone. I could have eaten lunch today in my office and surfed the internet, but instead I sat down at a table full of strangers and introduced myself. And guess what? They were happy to meet me!
Comments»
Niels,
It was nice meeting you at lunch today. I hope you sit at our cliquish table again.
-John
Niels,
Agreed, I had a splendid time discussing how our mother’s prepared meals. Can’t wait to eat lunch with you tomorrow, and the next day.
-Daniel
OK, if either of you were actually sitting with me at lunch yesterday, then it’s a little unsettling how fast you tracked me down. Oh, it’s a brave new world we live in.
Niels, a group of us are going out this weekend. Come to me at lunch for more details. -John
well, well, look at who’s making friends quick :) Just don’t tell them the nipple ring story!