Getting started
You bump into an attractive new work colleague at the photocopier. Do you blush and look at the floor? Or do you turn to them and ask cheerfully if they need any help?
You're alone at a party. Do you stand in the corner feeling embarrassed or do you move over to the food and drink and ask the person next to you to recommend something to try?
Starting conversations with people is often the hardest part of any social interaction. It's often enough just to comment on the situation you're both in: "I haven't seen you around here before." Or "Lovely venue for a party…".
Now we’re talking
Once you've got talking, what then? Don't worry about the impression you're making – focus on the other person. So you could ask a new colleague, "Where did you work before?" Or a fellow party guest, "How do you know the host?" Try to ask questions that require more than a simple yes or no answer.
Body talk
Remember: what you say is usually less important than how you say it. Sometimes you don't need to say anything at all! If you're lost for words try making eye contact and smiling. It might encourage the other person to start the conversation for you.
Getting talking is easier to do if you're confident about having clean teeth and fresh breath. So brush twice daily for at least two minutes with a good quality toothpaste like Close Up. This will help you deal with the bacteria that cause bad breath and the everyday stains that discolour teeth. Pay particular attention to gaps between your teeth and the gum line. Don't forget to give your tongue a gentle brush too! To ensure your breath says fresh longer, rinse thoroughly with mouthwash.
Follow these simple steps to oral care and next time you bump into that colleague at the photocopier you'll have nothing to worry about.
