I struggle to make conversation with strangers.

They make me uncomfortable.

I can’t ever think of the right thing to stay to get started. I’ve read a bunch of suggested openers, but they rarely work for me.

What Doesn’t Work

In the past, I’ve tried things like:

• “Nice tie, where did you find it?”
• “How do you know [insert name of party organizer]?”
• “Boy, this is a great event.”
• “Hi, I’m Lee Rosen, and I’m damn glad to meet you!”

Mostly, my approach to starting a conversation leaves us staring at one another in silence.

It’s not pretty. I feel awkward, the other person feels awkward, and I look for a fast exit.

Recently, however, I stumbled across a line that works.

What Will Probably Work for You

I can tell you, however, that it is different in a big way, because it works.

What’s the line?

“What brings you here?”

That’s it: “What brings you here?”

I’ve now tried it a dozen times, and in 11 cases out of 12, it worked like a charm. The person on the other end started talking, and things took off.

Each time it happened, I had a hard time suppressing my smile. I really can’t believe how much difference a few words can make.

The one time it didn’t work involved an attractive woman. I asked the question, and she looked deeply into my eyes and said, “I’ve got to go.” She literally ran from the room. It was weird. I have no idea what happened.

Anyway, seriously, try it at the next party or networking event you attend. It’s probably not a good line to use while waiting at the jail, but it works nearly anywhere else.

“What brings you here?” works like a charm. You have my permission to use it—often.