Starter questions you can use today

Here are simple prompts that help you make friends in English anywhere—class, office, cafés, or online. Pick two or three and keep them ready on your phone.

• What music are you into lately?
• Do you have a favorite local food?
• What’s a movie you can rewatch anytime?
• Any hobbies you’re trying this year?
• Coffee or tea—how do you take it?
• What’s a book or podcast you recommend?
• Where would you love to travel next?
• Do you like singing or playing an instrument?
• What do you usually do on weekends?
• Which apps do you use the most?
• What’s your favorite comfort food?
• What’s something fun you learned recently?

Two short small-talk dialogues

At a campus café
A: Hi, is this seat taken?
B: Not at all. Go ahead!
A: Thanks. I’m trying to make friends in English more. Do you come here often?
B: Pretty often. Their iced latte is great. What do you usually order?
A: I like the matcha. By the way, what kind of music are you into?
B: Indie pop lately. You?
A: Same! Have you heard of LANY’s new song?

At the office pantry
A: Morning! New mug?
B: Yep—gift from a friend.
A: Nice. I’m practicing small talk to make friends in English. Do you prefer coffee or tea?
B: Coffee, for sure. How about you?
A: Tea on weekdays, coffee on Mondays. Any weekend plans?
B: Maybe a movie. Got any recommendations?

7-day mini practice plan

Build confidence step by step. Keep sentences short and friendly.

1. Day 1: Say hello to two people; ask one easy question.
2. Day 2: Use body language—smile and nod—while asking about music or food.
3. Day 3: Share one short story (2–3 sentences) about your day.
4. Day 4: Listen more: ask one follow-up question (Why? Which? How?).
5. Day 5: Make one friendly compliment: hairstyle, presentation, or outfit.
6. Day 6: Start a 3-minute chat with a classmate/colleague.
7. Day 7: Review: what worked well? Try the same opener with a new person.

Common mistakes—and friendlier fixes

• Too formal: “I am extremely interested in knowing your hobbies.” → Better: “What are your hobbies?”
• Too broad: “Tell me about yourself.” → Better: “What do you enjoy doing after work?”
• Grammar worry: “Sorry if my English is bad.” → Better: “I’m still learning—thanks for chatting with me!”
• Yes/No trap: “Do you like movies?” → Better: “What movie did you enjoy recently?”
• No follow-up: After an answer, add: “Why do you like it?” or “Which one is your favorite?”

Keep going: Practice real-life conversations in General English for Adults at LIA. Need help choosing a level or schedule? Contact our branch team. For a quick read on speaking confidence, see this short article.