"You want to establish rapport in an easy-going way and speak in a low-key, somewhat neutral tone of voice," says Los Angeles dating and singles consultant and workshop leader Renee Piane. "How you say something is just as important as the words you say."
Here are some winning lines that Piane has harvested over the years:
"I'm a little shy, but I didn't want to miss this opportunity to meet you." She says, "This works very well because so many people understand what it's like to be shy and because it's honest and brave."
If you see someone at the park with their dog, bike or skateboard ask them: "What kind of (blank) is that?" "Dogs and sporting gear are easy conversation starters," notes Piane. "It's fun and nonthreatening to talk about workout clothes or accessories. Ask someone where they got their footwear, sunglasses or sweatshirt."
If you're at a cafe or a restaurant and overhear someone's conversation, you can declare: "Excuse me, I overheard you say that you're interested in (fill in the blank). Please, can you tell me a little about (fill in the blank)?"
