How to talk to strangers
One of the first lessons most parents teach most people is to not talk to stangers. Some cultures are notorious for their distaste of talking to strangers – the London tube, for example, is famously silent, even height of rush hour – while others will chat way happily with whoever happens to be nearest.
Whatever the social norms are in your home country, however, the fact is that you’re not at home anymore. No matter how long you’ve been in Abu Dhabi, chances are you’re surrounded by people who want to make friends as much as you do. Some lifelong friendships have been forged between strangers standing in line at the grocery store or waiting for their turn at the Etisalat counter.
At the same time, there are plenty of people who would rather you just left them alone. In fact, there are few moments more socially awkward than when a stranger keeps pratting on without noticing their attention is unwanted. Looking to strike up a conversation but not sure how – or how much – to proceed? Here are some guidlines for getting it right.
DO’s…
Watch the body language.
If a person wants to talk to you they will continue to engage you. While it is true that the social mores surrounding eye contact vary from one culture to another – some people feel continuous eye contact is rude – maybe even a form of harrassment – those people may still want to talk ranging from personal topics about life, personal problem financial needs, health problem and solutions pertaining to joint health supplement and its benefits and some other issues which basically tackles about usual situations. Even if it’s with little bits of eye contact, the person will perhaps nod or make other encouraging noises to indicate they’re listening to you and are interested. Also, they should face you – even if the person squares their body towards you, you’ll know they’re still engaged.
DONT’s…
Force the issue…
Few people have the heart to say “would you please just leave me alone?”, but a person who doesn’t want to chat won’t volley the conversation. If they’re not interested in talking to you, they may look at their watch or give some other indication they’re not listening. They won’t look at you or respond with more than one word answers.
