How to Talk to Men at Work
#1 More Conversation Starters
"I'm thinking of trying out [new restaurant/activity] in the area. Have you heard anything about it?"
Asking for local recommendations, implying shared geographical interest.
"(Accidentally drop a pen near him and then pick it up, making eye contact and smiling) Oh, sorry about that!"
A non-verbal way to initiate contact, followed by a polite acknowledgment.
"I heard you're working on the [project name] project. How's that going?"
Showing awareness of his work and opening a door for him to talk about it.
"I couldn't help but notice you're reading [book/article]. Is it any good? I'm always looking for new things to read."
Commenting on something he's actively engaged with, showing shared interests.
"Excuse me, I'm trying to find [specific item/location/person]. Do you happen to know where it is?"
A low-stakes question that allows him to be helpful and provides a natural opening for further conversation.
"Did you have a good [weekend/holiday]?"
A polite and common casual question to open a conversation.
"You seem really good at [specific work task/skill]. Do you have any tips?"
A direct compliment on his professional competence, inviting him to share his knowledge.
"Ugh, another [Monday/Friday/long meeting]! How's your day going so far?"
A relatable, slightly empathetic comment about the workday, inviting a casual response.
"I'm having a bit of trouble with [software/system]. Have you ever used it?"
Asking for specific technical help, making him feel useful.
"Do you know when [specific office event/activity] is happening?"
Asking about a general office event, implying you're both part of the same community.
"Wow, it's [crazy/busy/quiet] today, isn't it?"
A simple observation about the general office atmosphere, easy to agree with and expand upon.
"(While waiting for coffee/printer) This line is always so long! Do you come here often?"
Commenting on a shared, slightly frustrating experience and then asking a question.
"Are you having a good [week/day]?"
A very general and polite question, a soft opening for a conversation.
"Excuse me, do you know if [someone specific] is in today?"
A direct, work-related question that can be expanded upon if he gives a helpful answer.
"This [coffee/lunch/meeting] is really [good/bad/interesting], isn't it?"
Commenting on a shared experience or observation in the immediate environment.
"That's a cool [desk ornament/piece of art/photo] you have there. Is there a story behind it?"
Commenting on something personal but visible in his workspace, inviting him to share something about himself.
"It's so [cold/hot] in here today, isn't it?"
A simple observation about the immediate environment, easy to agree with.
"I really like your [pen/notebook/mug]! Where did you get it?"
A compliment on a smaller, less personal item that might spark a brief chat.
"I was just looking at [company news/announcement]. What do you think about it?"
Bringing up a relevant work-related topic for discussion.
"I'm trying to figure out how to [do something specific related to work]. Have you ever dealt with that before?"
Asking for professional advice or help, leveraging his expertise.
"I'm starving! Do you know if there are any good [food places/coffee shops] nearby that are still open?"
A practical question about a common need, leading to suggestions and potential further discussion about food.
"I love your [bag/watch/tie]! Where did you get it?"
A direct compliment on an accessory, which is less personal than clothing and allows for an easy follow-up question about where he got it.
"That was a really interesting point you made in the meeting just now."
Acknowledging his contribution in a work context shows you pay attention and value his input.
"Hi, I don't think we've officially met. I'm [Your Name], I work in [Your Department/Role]."
A straightforward and professional introduction that opens the door for him to introduce himself and his role.