Psychology Bulletin

Never Get Stuck in Awkward Silence Again!

💬 “Stop Killing Conversations—Ask Better Questions” | Social Skills Short Closed questions like, “Did you have a good weekend?”—yeah, those are conversation killers. They lead to one-word answers followed by awkward silence and eye contact that feels like a hostage negotiation. Here’s the fix: Start asking open-ended questions that invite a story, not a yes-or-no. ✅ Instead of: “Did you have a good weekend?” 🔥 Try: “What’s the wildest thing you got up to this weekend?” Boom—now you’re in a real conversation. No more verbal dead ends. 📊 A 2019 study in Psychology Bulletin found that people who ask more open-ended questions are seen as more likable and engaging. That’s not just a social skill—it’s a superpower. So stop interrogating people like you're in an FBI interview, and start actually connecting. Ask stuff like: 🔹 “What’s the craziest thing you’ve done lately?” 🔹 “What’s something this week that totally surprised you?” 🔹 “What’s been taking up your headspace lately?” Let people tell their story. You're not just fishing for info—you're building trust. Want to be a conversational god? Lose the yes/no, embrace curiosity.