- Sparking a conversation with a total stranger is tough — especially when you can't hide behind your phone.
- Sometimes it's best to approach someone straightforwardly—chances are they will be polite.
- If you're out with your friends, casually ask them to join.
- If you're at a coffee shop or bookstore, find common ground in a shared love for espresso or a favorite author.
- Get them talking about themselves.
Breaking the ice on dating apps is pretty low-stakes. Since you're not face-to-face with the object of your affection, if they blow you off, your ego usually doesn't take the biggest hit. But ask someone to approach a complete stranger in real life, and you might watch the color drain out of their face. How do you even go about breaking the ice IRL? And what if the person blows you off?
"It's my turn to buy a round of drinks for my friends—do you want to join us?"
Hey, group hangs need not always be a buzzkill. If you spot a cutie sitting alone at the bar, inviting them to join you all. Your friends can help break the ice andleave room for a little one-on-one time later on.
"I’m trying to decide what movie to see this weekend. do you have any suggestions?"
If they don’t have a suggestion, you could always figure out something to see together.
"I'm headed to a party — do you have any opinions about these beers?"
There are way too many beers in the bodega fridge, if you ask us. Luckily, that surplus lends itself to a key icebreaker. Already a beer expert? Ask them to pick between your two favorites as a tie-breaker.
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