The list of discussion questions on this page is part of a publication called Number One ESL Discussion Book & Reference Guide.
1. How often do you meet new people? Where would you go if you wanted to meet new people in your city?
2. Do you usually approach someone you don’t know, or do you wait for someone to approach you?
3. How do people introduce themselves in your culture? How do you usually introduce yourself to someone new? What information about yourself do you include?
4. How important is it to make a good first impression when meeting someone new?
5. Are you good at remembering names? What is the best way to remember the names of people you just met?
6. Describe a memorable experience you’ve had meeting someone for the first time: Who did you meet? Where did you meet them? What did you do? Why was it memorable?
7. In what situations do you think it’s appropriate to exchange contact information with someone you have just met?
8. Do you prefer meeting new people in small groups or one-on-one? Why?
9. Have you ever experienced a language barrier when trying to meet new people? How did you overcome it?
10. What advice would you give to someone who is shy or nervous about meeting new people?
11. How do you usually break the ice when meeting someone new?
12. What are some common topics you discuss when meeting someone for the first time?
13. How important is networking for career success? How much time do you spend networking?
14. Have you ever made a new friend unexpectedly, such as while traveling or in a waiting room? What happened?
15. How do you feel about online networking and making friends through social media?
16. Have you ever experienced culture shock when meeting people from a different background? Can you share an example?
17. What role does body language play in making a positive impression when meeting someone new? Give some examples of what you usually do with your hands, or what posture you usually take.
18. Do you think it’s easier or harder to make friends as an adult compared to when you were younger? Why?
19. Have you ever had a negative experience when meeting someone new? How did you handle it?
20. Do you believe in the concept of “love at first sight”? Why or why not?
21. How do you maintain relationships with people you meet for the first time? How do you follow up with them?
22. How soon after meeting a new person would you regard them as a friend? What are your requirements for calling someone a friend? What qualities do you value most in a potential friend or acquaintance? How do you know you can trust someone you have just met?
23. How does it affect your interaction with someone if you are introduced through a mutual friend or acquaintance? Are there potential drawbacks to being introduced through a mutual connection? For instance, you may feel pressure because a friend has said some positive things about you.
24. What cultural differences have you noticed in the way people greet each other in different countries? What are some cultural taboos to be aware of when meeting people from different countries?