How to Start a Conversation When You Have Nothing to Talk About

Start with a "hello," and simply tell the new person your name then ask them theirs. Offer your hand to shake, upon his/her responding to you. (If you go to other countries, greet the person in tune with the particular culture, e.g. in India greet by saying 'namaste' with folded hands). If you already know the person, skip this step and proceed to step 3.

Look around. See if there is anything worth pointing out. Sure, talking about the weather is a cliche, but if there's something unusual about it--bam!--you've got a great topic of conversation.

Offer a compliment. Don't lie and say you love someone's hair when you think it's revolting, but if you like his or her shoes, or a handbag, say so. A sincere compliment is a wonderful way to get someone to warm up to you. But be careful not to say something so personal that you scare the person off or make him or her feel uncomfortable. It is best not to compliment a person's looks or body.

Ask questions! Most people love to talk about themselves --- get them going. "What classes are you taking this year?" but don't talk about yourself too much that makes you seem full of yourself. "Have you seen (Insert-Something-Here)? What did you think of it?" Ask open ended questions that will get them talking. For example, a good question would be, "That's a nice handbag, where'd you get it?" and then they can talk about the day that they went shopping and all this funny stuff happened, as opposed to, "I like your handbag." "Thank you." and then its over. Again, keep the questions light and not invasive. Do not ask too many questions if he or she is not responsive to them.

Jump on any conversation-starters he or she might offer; take something he or she has said and run with it. Agree, disagree, ask a question about it, or offer an opinion, just don't let it go by without notice.

Look your newfound friend in the eye, it engenders trust (but don't stare). Also, use the person's name a time or two during the conversation; it will help you remember the name, and will draw the person's attention to what you are talking about.

Don't forget to smile and have fun with your conversation!