Ask for their name. 询问他们的名字

One of the easiest ways to break the ice when meeting someone new is to introduce yourself and ask the person for their name. 

You: Hi, I'm Charles, what's your name?

New Person: I'm Cindy.

You: It's nice to meet you Cindy, that's a beautiful name, my sister's name is also Cindy. 

While introducing yourself is a great ice breaker, to continue the conversation, you'll need to follow up with some additional conversation such as the ones below.

Inquire about how they know the host. 询问他们是如何知道主人的

Asking about how they know the host will create a connection between you and the new person.

How do you know the host?

How did you find out about this event? (If you don't know the host)

There's a good chance that you may find out that you both know some of the same people at the event as well.

Ask if they come here often. 询问他们是否经常来这里

If they say it's their first time, ask where they usually go or how they heard about the place.

How did you hear about this place?

If they say they come here often, you can follow up by asking them for their suggestions about the place.

What do you usually order when you come here?

What's their signature dish/drink?

If you've been to the place before, you can provide your own input or suggestions.

Inquire about their occupation or school. 询问他们的职业或者学校

Ask about where they work and what they do or where they go to school and what they are studying.

Are you currently in school?

Where do you go?

What are you studying?

What is your favorite part of school?

What do you want to do when you graduate?

What do you do for work?

How long have you been at your job for?

Do you enjoy your work?

How did you get into your line of work?

What is your favorite thing about your work?

If they don't work or go to school, ask about what they were doing before, are currently doing or want to do in the future.

What are you currently doing?

What do you hope to be doing in the future?

Inquire about how they spend their free time.询问他们如何度过闲暇时间

By asking about what they do in their free time, you open up a topic in which they have a great interest in, whether it be sports, hobbies, volunteer work or their family.

How do you spend your time when you're not working (or in school)?

Do you enjoy playing/watching any sports?

Do you have any siblings?

Do you have any kids?