This. Thank you. > "Where are you going?" It is good to add that this is not my first question. Like you suggested, it is better to start with something that

This. Thank you. > "Where are you going?" It is good to add that this is not my first question. Like you suggested, it is better to start with something that can be perceived by both parties (the author in the book refers to this as triangulation), you talk about something 'simple and stupid' like the weather to 'gauge' if the other party is interested in engaging. The author of the book (Joe Keohane) actually gives a bunch of tips to prevent the conversation from stalling because of 'standard script' (e.g. standard conditioned questions+responses like 'how do you do'). Worth the deep dive if you're experimenting and looking to get the balance right (and prevent to be perceived as the 'town's fool'. )