Have you ever wondered how to break the awkward silence when sitting beside a complete stranger or meeting someone for the first time? Read on.

So yesterday I decided to visit the city center and do some long needed basic necessity shopping. And lo behold! I discovered that a shared cab is a great setting for stories.  As I took my seat in the car, I was joined by a gentleman- someone very senior in my organization (whom I shall not name for various reasons) and whom till yesterday I only knew by name. We were both headed in the same direction and the journey would be an hour long atleast.

Initially, we whiled away time talking on our phones, smsing (in my case, pretending to sms or read important messages), etc. Finally, with nothing else to pretend doing, I turned to person beside me and asked him how things were shaping up for him.

That’s it. Simple, huh?

One thing led to another and soon we were chatting away to glory! The jackpot was when I asked him what his hobbies were. And the answer was a story…..or rather a collection of stories and anecdotes….. childhood memories, nostalgic moments, heights conquered, unfulfilled dreams and so many other wonderful insights! It was as if his stories opened a window into his soul! His countenance changed and he was transformed from an aloof fellow traveler into this bright eyed, enthusiastic  companion so eager to regale me with his stories! I  got so caught up with his stories that the ordinarily long car ride seemed unusually short!

All of us are great storytellers. And the story we love to tell the most is the one about ourselves! If you want to build relationships with people, give them an opportunity to tell their story. As Dale Carnegie said ‘make it about the other person’. Put the spotlight on the person and you will be amazed how quickly you make great friends.

Next time you share a space with a stranger ask this simple question: So what do you like to do?

Happy storying!