Conversational ice breakers.

• Position: Parties - Brief Article

Do you dread holiday parties? Does attending or hosting another open house make you want to stay inside your office and lock the door? The following ice-breaking tips from Debra Fine, author of The Fine Art of Small Talk, can help you turn another tired social occasion into a productive networking opportunity--even if small talk does not come naturally to you--and possibly come away with revitalized relationships with acquaintances and associates, or even new business opportunities.

Conversation starters include:

"What is your connection to the host or event?" "What do you enjoy the most about this time of year?" "How does this season impact your work?" "Bring me up to date about your life/work/family since the last time we got together." "What are your plans for the holidays?" "Do you have a favorite holiday tradition?" "What challenges do you encounter at this time of year?" "Tell me about a special gift you have given or received." "What is your favorite...