The Art of Conversation For Dinner Dating
Every weekend we love hearing the fantastic feedback from our members about about their nights out - dinner dating with A Table For Six.
Here are a few recent reviews:
"Fun! More fun than I expected! First timer, honestly I didn’t think it would be as much fun as it was. Everyone was respectful and friendly. We all really got on and laughed a lot. I have a ‘friend’ date and a ‘date’ date next week!"
"A great start to a new world of dining! My first dinner with Table For Six was a really enjoyable experience in a safe environment. The restaurant was lovely, the food delicious and the company was diverse and interesting. The dinner was a great way to connect with new people. Thank you!"
"Great night out! The venue was a great spot. We all had an awesome night, couldn’t thank each other enough for the evening. So looking forward to my next dinner. If you’re up for a great night out, meeting like minded people I’d couldn’t recommend it enough. Thanks again A Table for Six!"
Making meaningful connections over dinner often hinges on the art of conversation. When meeting new people, conversational skills can play an important role in connecting. Asking thoughtful questions, actively listening and sharing stories allows everyone at the table to feel valued and included. By striking a balance between speaking and listening and staying positive, conversations can flow more naturally and lead to deeper connections.
Here are our top 5 tips on the art of making conversation, so you can make the most of dinner dating!
1. Start with small talk -- Before diving into deeper topics, start with some small talk. Plan to initiate a few questions, to avoid awkward silence. This could be as simple as asking about others’ days or commenting on the venue. Small talk helps to establish rapport and create a natural transition into more meaningful discussions later on.
2. Ask questions -- Engaging someone with thoughtful questions shows that you’re interested in what they have to say. Then ask a 2nd question! Don’t turn the conversation immediately back to yourself. By asking a 2nd question you will find out more about their topic, their thoughts and feelings.
3. Show empathy -- Such an important and under-rated skill! Listen for the feeling they’re conveying in conversation and then comment on this. Be compassionate and show that you care.
4. Avoid controversial topics -- While some debates can be fun, it’s best to steer clear of controversial or sensitive topics when meeting someone new. Discussions around politics, religion, or other divisive subjects can lead to discomfort or disagreements, which can put a damper on the evening. Stick to neutral, positive topics that foster a friendly vibe.
5. Ask for advice or recommendations -- Asking for advice or recommendations is a great way to keep the conversation flowing. Whether it’s about books, movies, or even travel destinations, it allows the other person to share their insights, making them feel valued and helpful.
Finally, here are some interesting questions to help spark conversation and connection when meeting new singles over dinner!
- What’s something exciting you’re working on right now?
- Do you have any hobbies or activities that you’re really passionate about?
- What’s the best book or movie you’ve enjoyed recently?
- If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
- What’s your favorite way to spend your weekends?
- What was the first concert you attended and how was it?
- What’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn but haven’t had the chance to yet?
- Do you have a favourite restaurant?
- What’s something that always makes you laugh?
- If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
- If anything was possible what musician or band would you like to see in live in concert?
- What’s one goal or dream you’re working toward at the moment?
- If you could instantly become an expert in anything, what would it be?
- What’s your favourite way to stay active or fit?
- What's your favourite band?
- What’s the most memorable trip you’ve ever taken?
- What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
- Is there a cause or charity that’s especially meaningful to you?
- If you could live in any era from the past, which one would you choose?
- What’s a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
We look forward to seeing you at one of our dinners soon to test some of these questions! Let us know if you have suggestions for more questions you'd add to this list!
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TAGGED UNDER: social life, finding love, dating, Table for Six, dinner for six, dinners, A Table for Six Reviews