The art of small talk: 9 topics that help introverts thrive in conversation

Let’s be real: small talk gets a bad rap—especially if you’re introverted.

It can feel shallow, awkward, or like you’re stuck in a loop of “So, what do you do?” for the hundredth time.

But here’s the truth most people miss: small talk isn’t supposed to be deep. It’s just a bridge—a way to ease into real connection.

You don’t need to be loud or charming to navigate a conversation. You just need a few reliable paths to explore, the kind that don’t leave you scrambling for an exit.

So, here are nine conversation topics that make talking to people a little less intimidating, and a lot more authentic.

1. Comfort foods and casual meals

Food is universal. Everyone eats, and most people light up when you ask about their favorite comfort dish. It’s one of the easiest ways to get someone talking without feeling like you’re prying.

You might say, “What’s your go-to lazy weekend meal?” or “Is there a snack you never get tired of?”

People love sharing what they cook (or order) when no one’s watching. And as a bonus, you can swap ideas and maybe even discover something new to try.

And if you’re at a party or dinner event, food-related conversations tend to unfold naturally. You’re surrounded by the subject, after all.

It’s low-pressure, sensory, and people often have strong opinions about pineapple on pizza or the best breakfast carb. Use that.

2. Shared spaces

If you’re talking to someone in the same environment—like a coffee shop, bookstore, or gym—that’s instant material.

Try something like, “Have you been here before?” or “I like how chill this place is. Do you have any favorite spots nearby?”

These kinds of conversations work because they’re rooted in the present moment. No need to search for common ground—it’s literally right there.

You also show that you’re tuned into your environment, which is often something introverts naturally excel at.

Noticing little things—the playlist, the layout, the lighting—can spark connection more organically than diving straight into personal history.

3. Stuff you’re watching, reading, or listening to

This one never fails. Whether it’s a show, a podcast, a book, or even a meme trend, media makes for easy back-and-forth.

You can say, “Have you watched anything good lately?” or “I just finished a book that messed with my head in the best way—read anything wild recently?”

People naturally reveal more about themselves through their taste in entertainment. You’ll learn what makes them laugh, think, or feel seen—all without asking anything too personal.

Plus, if you’re introverted, there’s a good chance you already spend time consuming thoughtful media.

Sharing it becomes a bridge to more meaningful conversation without pushing you out of your comfort zone.

4. Mini rituals and weird habits

Everyone has their own little routines—some practical, some just weirdly specific.

Asking, “Do you have a morning ritual that actually works for you?” or “What’s your version of a reset button when your day goes sideways?” can lead to surprisingly honest answers.

You’re not just making small talk—you’re tapping into what helps someone function in real life.

And if you’re an introvert like me, that’s way more interesting than talking about the weather.

It also helps normalize introverted preferences. Like needing quiet time after socializing, or listening to a specific playlist before starting work.

When someone shares a quirky habit, you’ll often find you’re not as weird as you thought.

5. What people wanted to be as a kid

This one’s underrated. It skips the boring “what do you do?” question and goes straight to a more nostalgic place.

Try: “What did you want to be when you were 8?” or “Did you have a weird childhood dream job?”

It brings out playfulness, stories, and a glimpse into how someone has changed—or stayed the same.

It also flips the script a bit. Instead of focusing on adult accomplishments, you’re connecting over curiosity and imagination.

And if someone says, “I wanted to be a marine biologist because I loved dolphins,” boom—you’re off to a conversation about oceans, animals, travel, or why dreams change.

6. Local gems and hidden favorites

People love giving recommendations. Whether it’s a hidden trail, a hole-in-the-wall noodle spot, or a thrift shop with great finds, locals enjoy being the “insider.”

You can casually ask, “Is there a place around here you always bring friends when they visit?” or “Any underrated spots I should check out?”

It shows interest in their perspective without putting them on the spot—and it gives you real value in return.

Bonus: this topic often leads to an exchange of stories. You share your favorite park or coffee shop, and suddenly you’re bonding over neighborhood gems like old friends.

7. What they do to relax

Everyone’s got something they do to wind down, even if it’s just scrolling in bed or bingeing TikToks.

Asking “What helps you decompress after a long week?” opens the door to personal but low-stakes conversations.

You might end up talking about music, hobbies, nature walks, or just doing absolutely nothing.

I’ve had entire conversations unravel from this topic into chats about sauna culture, journaling, or even cold plunges (which I still think are kind of a scam, by the way).

8. Low-key passions and side quests

Not everyone wants to talk about work—but almost everyone has a thing they get nerdy about on the side.

Ask something like, “Do you have any random hobbies or side interests you’re into right now?” or “Is there a niche topic you could talk about for hours?”

These answers are gold. You get to see what lights someone up when they’re not in default mode.

Whether it’s mushroom foraging, mixology, woodworking, or deep-diving conspiracy theories for fun—it’s often where the best conversations live.

It also gives introverts a chance to steer the conversation toward genuine enthusiasm, not just polite replies.

9. Stuff they’ve recently learned or unlearned

Here’s a sneakily deep one that starts light: “What’s something you’ve changed your mind about lately?” or “Learned anything that surprised you recently?”

This opens up space for someone to share growth, new insights, or even random trivia.

And for people who don’t love small talk, this is one of those rare topics that lets you skip the shallow end without getting too personal. It invites curiosity instead of defensiveness.

Final words

Small talk doesn’t have to mean talking small.

For introverts, it helps to have topics that feel natural, low-pressure, and open-ended. These nine are versatile enough to use anywhere—from parties to work events to meeting someone new at your climbing gym.

You don’t need to memorize lines. You just need a few good jumping-off points.

Ask better questions, give honest answers, and let the rest unfold.

That’s the art of it.