Describe what it's like making small talk with someone whose background or life is completely different from yours.

A natural way to answer

It takes a little more care, but it's often more rewarding. You have to set aside your assumptions and approach it with genuine curiosity. Once you find a shared human thread — family, food, a laugh — the differences melt into the background and the conversation takes on a life of its own.

Key phrases to use

• fall back on — rely on something familiar as a default“You can't fall back on the usual small talk.”
• common ground — shared interests, experiences or views that connect people“We finally found some common ground.”
• takes on a life of its own — develops and grows in a way no one planned or controls“The chat took on a life of its own.”
• tread thoughtfully — proceed with care and sensitivity“With unfamiliar customs I tread thoughtfully.”