Based on Ashley Fidel's article posted on The Muse:

"7 Conversation Starters Better than 'What Do You Do' and 7 That Are Even Worse"

https://www.themuse.com/advice/7-conversation-starters-better-than-what-do-...

Ashley:

"1. “Do you have any trips coming up?”

Almost everyone has a trip on the horizon (or has just returned from one), and what could be more enjoyable than chatting about your upcoming week on the beach?"

Drew:
Even if they don't have a trip scheduled, ask about their favorite trip. Or ask where they'd go if they could leave in one hour.

Ashley:

"2. “Are you watching House of Cards?”

Current events or popular shows are always great openers and usually elicit interesting opinions. A few months ago, my best opener was “Have you listened to Serial?”—almost everyone was familiar and had plenty of commentary on the popular podcast."

Drew:
Another alternative: who is your favorite TV character?

Ashley:

"3. “I’m planning a birthday dinner—any great recommendations?”

Even if your birthday is not around the corner, everyone loves talking about his or her favorite restaurant. Be prepared to be hungry after this conversation!"

Drew:
Another alternative is to simply ask for recommendations around the area. This is especially helpful if you're away from home, but the person you're speaking with is local.

Ashley:

"4. “I’m looking for a new book. Have you read any good ones lately?”

Even though this question seems like a snooze, everyone secretly feels smart when talking about a book they just read. Boost your new contact’s confidence with this question and—added bonus—get a great book recommendation."


Drew:
Coming from a person who doesn't necessarily do a lot of reading, this can be a bit intimidating. Another alternative is asking about social media: "I'm trying to build my Twitter/LinkedIn/etc base - who should I follow?"

Ashley:

"5. “I love your necklace. Where is it from?”

Flattery works! While you can compliment someone on pretty much anything, jewelry usually carries a story with it—maybe it was a grandmother’s heirloom or a souvenir from an exotic trip. This compliment naturally leads to a more engaging conversation."

Drew:
Also a fun starter, if you happen to be matching with a color scheme: "woah! looks like we both chose blue today - what will it be tomorrow?"

Ashley:

"6. “I skipped my spin class for this event. What is your favorite workout?”

Most people have a gym routine that they love to talk about (or love to hate!). This conversation starter can turn into follow-up plans to try out the latest fad workout together."

Drew:
Again, this could be challenging if the person doesn't workout much. Consider paraphrasing, "I skipped my spin class for this event. I'm totally addicted. What's your favorite activity?"

Ashley

"7. “I’m so embarrassed—I slipped on the stairs outside and everyone saw me. Has that ever happened to you?”

I’m naturally clumsy, so this opener is usually some version of the truth for me. I’ve learned that self-deprecation goes a long way—bringing up an embarrassing story can ease tension and draw out funny stories from a crowd."

Drew:
Incorporate any type of appropriate humor as you feel comfortable. Humor tends to help people feel at ease and confident.

This is my own personal favorite conversation starter. I also like these:

- If I could only have one food for the rest of my life, it'd be tacos. What about you?

- What's the longest time you've ever spent traveling?

- If you've just arrived at a theme park, which ride to you go on first?