by Meghan Rizzo

Created on: June 30, 2009

Conversation is a central and crucial element on a first date. Physical attraction is one thing, but true 'chemistry' is mental. Therefore, it is imperative that both parties do everything in their power to avoid awkward silences and faltering conversations. Following are some excellent conversation starters to keep you and your date talking through the night.

Ice Breakers

'What are you going to order?'

Talk about food. It is far more than a means of survival. We associate food with celebrations and milestones. Favorite foods are often a result of culture and upbringing, and a light-hearted anecdote about Grandma's famous lasagna or the great sashimi in the city can speak volumes about your date's lifestyle and personality.

'What's in your CD player?'

People bond very quickly if they share a love of music. Ask your date what he's been listening to. If he has an I-Pod on him, have him show it to you and scroll through his collection. If you share the same taste, conversation will come easily with discussion of lyrics, concerts, and specific songs. If your musical tastes differ, have him explain to you what appeals to him about his music choices. Challenge yourself to broaden your horizons and ask to learn more about his favorites.

'What was the last movie you saw?'

Just as music provides great fodder for discussion, movies will probably keep the conversation flowing with ease. Should you share the same favorites, you might find yourselves reciting quotations and laughing well into the night. Since most people tend to be less passionate about movies than they are music, feel free to challenge - even tease - your date if you find his taste differs from your own.

Deeper Questions

'What do you do for a living?'

(If you are a student, 'What is your major?' is a cliche, but equally effective query). We spend more of our waking hours at work or school than we do anywhere else, so it is natural for our words to flow when it comes to these topics.

Ask your date specific questions about what exactly he does, whether he finds his job rewarding, how he feels about his coworkers, and what his career goals are. Not only will he have a lot to say, but you will discover a great deal about his priorities, values, hopes, and dreams.

'Tell me about your family.'

The way your date talks about his family will reveal a lot about how he treats those who are closest to him. If he describes a positive relationship, then this is a good indication that

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