Conversation Starters for Talking to Someone New

Start with something easy

A simple greeting is enough. Introduce yourself with your display name, then ask an open question that gives the other person room to choose what they share.

• “How has your day been so far?”
• “What’s a song you’ve had on repeat lately?”
• “Have you watched anything you’d recommend?”
• “If you had a free afternoon, what would you do?”

Follow the answer rather than a script

If they mention a film, ask what they enjoyed about it. If they describe a hobby, ask how they started. Share a little of your own experience too, so it feels like a conversation rather than an interview.

Give them time to finish. A pause does not mean the call is going badly; you can say, “Take your time,” or move to a lighter topic.

Ask before a personal topic

Questions about relationships, family, money or difficult experiences can feel intrusive on a first call. Ask whether they are comfortable discussing a topic and accept “no” without pushing. You can set the same boundary for yourself.

When someone wants you to listen

Try asking, “Would you like me to just listen, or would you like ideas?” You do not have to fix every problem. Reflect what you heard and avoid assuming you know what the other person needs.

For a planned conversation focused on being heard, TalkSpace offers separate paid sessions with a dedicated human listener. Community matches are casual conversations with other users.

End warmly and let connection be mutual

You can say, “It was nice talking with you.” If you both want to keep in touch, use a connection request. An accepted mutual connection lets you exchange messages and voice-call invitations on TalkSpace.

There is no need to exchange a phone number, home address or personal social account. Read our safety guide before sharing private information.