How to start a great conversation with a stranger

The first ten seconds decide most chats. Here is how to make them count.

Smile before you speak

On video, people decide in a moment whether to stay. A smile and a quick wave say more than any opening line: you are friendly, real and paying attention.

Check your light before you press Start. A lamp in front of you works better than a window behind you.

Ask open questions

“Where are you from?” gets one word. “What's the best thing about living there?” gets a story. Questions that start with what, how and why keep the conversation going.

Listen to the answer and ask about it. People remember the ones who were curious about them.

Use the games when it goes quiet

Silence is normal. Open Truth or Dare or watch a short YouTube video together — both of you see the same thing at the same moment, and there is suddenly plenty to talk about.

Leave on a good note

If you enjoyed it, follow them — if they follow you back, you become friends and can call each other directly. If it is not a match, just press Next. No hard feelings.