One of the hardest and more challenging things in life is reaching out and making a successful connection with someone. In the age of smartphones and really short attention spans (thanks 6-second videos on vine) it seems much harder to talk to someone. People seem to be more preoccupied with social media and their phones…. but every once in a while you can get someone’s attention. So, how do you keep it?

1. Don’t be afraid to be funny 

There’s a time to work and there’s a time to have fun, yes every grade school teacher I ever had, I know. Though being funny is an awesome asset to have. Most people try too hard to be serious but people love the genuine feeling of laughing.

2. Don’t take yourself to serious 

There’s nothing wrong with having confidence in yourself, but remember you’re just a person like everyone else. Everyone is trying to make the most of their situation so just acknowledge it.

3. Don’t be afraid to say “Hi” 

” Sorry seems to be the hardest word” may have been true at one point Elton John, but saying Hi seems to be harder (it’s a bad joke I know, but here’s a music video.)

It’s a hard task to go up to someone and say hi, especially when you don’t know them. Just remember again we’re all human so what’s the worst thing that can happen? I mean I guess they could avoid you, but at least you tried.

4. Be Patient

It’s not a fun situation when you’re trying to get to know someone and they obviously have no patience for you.

Try not to be that guy.

In turn try and give someone the time of the day, you never know what a conversation can bring.

5. Be Transparent 

Being transparent doesn’t mean you need to tell your whole life story it just means being honest. Try not to just say what the other person wants to hear, be open and honest to create more conversation.

Just remember at the end of the day we are all human and everyone has something to bring the table. It may not be apparent as some other people, but you never know what a conversation can bring.