People relax when they find something you share. It's usually there if you listen for it.
People drop clues about themselves all the time. Pick the best clue to follow.
✓ Done
Elena · accountant from Cluj · intermediate
Elena's new manager seemed serious and busy. Their conversations were polite and short. Then, one morning, Elena noticed a photo of a scruffy terrier on his desk.
“Is that your dog? I've got a terrier too, a very naughty one.” For the next ten minutes they swapped stories about chewed shoes and muddy walks. After that, every conversation was easier.
They had almost nothing in common at work. One small thing was enough.
Match each comment with a natural reply that builds common ground.
Tap a comment on the left, then its best reply.
✓ Done
Useful phrases from this chapter. Anything that isn't British English is labelled.
You're at a friend's barbecue talking to someone new. Find something you share.
Listen for the clues in what they say.
✓ Done
Think of a hobby, place or interest you'd love to share with someone. Write a “me too” line you can use.
Three short answers. The last one goes in your Conversation Kit.
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Psychologists have found again and again that we like people who seem similar to us. A large 2008 review by Matthew Montoya and colleagues confirmed it, and the similarity doesn't have to be big: a shared hobby, home town or even a favourite snack can start the connection.
Practise your common-ground line so it comes out naturally when the moment arrives.
Your line comes from the connection planner.
✓ Done
Finish all five activities to complete Lesson 6. Your progress saves on this device, and finished lessons are marked on the lessons page.
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