Being a solid conversationalist can make your life so much easier.
From connecting you with new friends or romantic partners to helping you get ahead in business, knowing the right words to say and when to use them is an invaluable skill that not enough people have. Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time or trying to solidify a connection you made previously, here are a few phrases to pepper into your chats to make a good impression. Some of them might be pretty basic, but that’s exactly why they’re so effective.
1. “That’s really interesting — tell me more about that.”
Few things make someone feel valued like genuine curiosity. By asking someone to share more, you show that you’re really engaged in what they’re saying. It keeps the conversation flowing naturally, makes them feel heard, and keeps things from feeling like a one-way street.
2. “I feel the same way about that.”
Agreeing with someone (when you actually do, of course) instantly builds rapport. Finding that common ground makes the conversation feel more connected. You’re letting the other person know that you get where they’re coming from, and that shared experience can make everything feel more natural.
3. “I can see why you’d feel that way.”
Even if you don’t fully agree, validating someone’s feelings shows you respect their perspective. It’s not about winning the argument or trying to convince them otherwise—it’s about letting them know you’re listening and that their emotions are understood. Approaching things this way helps keep things calm and prevents the conversation from getting heated.
4. “That reminds me of something similar that happened to me.”
Sharing your own story can be a great way to deepen the conversation, but it’s important not to make it all about you. When you connect what they’re saying to your own experience, it shows empathy and helps them feel like they’re not alone in their thoughts or feelings.
5. “You have such a unique way of looking at things.”
Source: Unsplash Complimenting someone’s perspective makes them feel good about themselves, and it shows you genuinely respect what they have to say. It’s an easy way to encourage them to share more and keeps the conversation from feeling shallow. People love feeling like their thoughts are important.
6. “Wow, that must have been a big deal for you.”
Source: Unsplash When someone shares something significant, acknowledging the weight of their experience makes them feel heard. It also invites them to open up more and talk about the impact it had on them. It shows you’re paying attention to what matters to them, not just the surface-level facts.
7. “I’ve never thought about it that way before.”
Source: Unsplash Admitting that someone’s perspective has given you a new insight is a great way to show that you’re open-minded and humble. It lets the other person know you value their point of view, and it invites more thoughtful conversation going forward.
8. “What you said really stuck with me.”
Source: Unsplash When you bring up something they said earlier, it shows you’ve been paying attention and that their words made an impact. It strengthens your connection and helps build continuity in the conversation, showing that what they shared truly mattered.
9. “You’re really good at explaining that.”
Source: Unsplash Complimenting someone’s communication skills boosts their confidence and encourages them to keep talking. Whether it’s a technical concept or just their opinion, when you acknowledge how clearly they express themselves, it makes them feel appreciated and more likely to engage.
10. “What would you do in this situation?”
Source: Unsplash Asking for their opinion shows respect for their ideas and gives them a chance to share their knowledge or experiences. It makes the conversation feel more collaborative and creates a stronger bond by exploring deeper topics together. Plus, it makes them feel important because you’re asking what they think, so you obviously value their perspective.
11. “You’re not alone in feeling that way.”
Source: Unsplash When someone shares something vulnerable, this shows empathy and solidarity. It helps the person feel understood, and it lets them know that they’re not the only one going through whatever it is. It can be a huge comfort and a way to deepen your connection.
12. “That sounds like it took a lot of effort.”
Source: Unsplash When someone talks about a challenge they faced or an achievement they’re proud of, acknowledging the effort they put in makes them feel recognised. It’s a simple way to give them credit and reinforce that you appreciate the hard work that went into whatever they’ve accomplished.
13. “What inspired you to do that?”
Source: Unsplash Asking about someone’s motivations taps into their deeper interests and passions. It’s a great way to encourage them to share more about what drives them, creating a more meaningful and engaging conversation. It also gives them a chance to talk about something they love, which always goes over well.
14. “That’s such a great point—I hadn’t considered it.”
Source: Unsplash Highlighting someone’s thoughtful contributions shows that you respect their ideas and are willing to consider them. It makes them feel like what they think matters, which encourages further exchange of ideas and keeps the conversation engaging and collaborative.
15. “How did you feel when that happened?”
Asking about emotions adds depth to any conversation. It shows that you care not just about the facts, but about how they were affected by the experience. Making that emotional connection builds trust and helps the conversation feel more personal.
16. “I love how passionate you are about this.”
Source: Unsplash When someone talks about something they care deeply about, acknowledging their enthusiasm shows that you’re really listening and that you value what excites them. People love when their passion is recognised, and this statement encourages them to share more about what they love.
