Sublime

It’s always easiest to break the ice with a few observations about the situation, rather than asking for personal information.

Issue an Invitation

Having a conversation is a little like peeling an onion—you want to proceed in layers, matching the level of intimacy shared by your partner.

First, I told something about myself,

However, my colleague was outgoing and conversational.

Fear of rejection keeps many of us from risking conversation,

• Express empathy. Everyone is entitled to be listened to, even when in the wrong.