One of the most helpful tools in personal evangelism is having a few good questions “in your back pocket.” These are the questions you can pull out at the right moment—one type breaks the ice and opens a conversation, while the other helps move the conversation to a deeper, more personal level.

Anyone committed to Knowing Their Story will benefit from having both types ready.

This week, we’re focusing on what I call “conversation handshakes”—those simple comments or questions that open the door to warm interaction with a stranger. Here are three types I use regularly:

1) Location Comments

Use your shared environment as an entry point for conversation.

At the grocery store: “Man, these prices are great. Do you shop here much?”

At the barbershop: “I don’t know what I’d do if this place closed… I guess I’d have to cut my own hair.”

Waiting at a restaurant: “It’s my first time here—do you have any recommendations?”

2) Observation Comments

Notice something neutral or positive about the person and use it to connect.

Seeing team gear: “Go Blue!” or “Did you go to U of I?”

Noticing a parent: “I’ve got one about that age—how old is he?” or “How’s dad life treating you?”

Spotting a tattoo: “That’s a cool tattoo. Can I ask what it means?” or “What inspired that design?”

3) Weather Comments

The safest way to test the waters—almost everyone has something to say about the weather.

In February: “So, did the groundhog see its shadow?”

On a hot day: “What’s better on a day like this—ice cream, a Frappuccino, or a cold swim?”

When it’s freezing: “It’s so cold… I need coffee. What do you think are the top three coffee spots in Peoria?”

Of course, there are endless ways to open a conversation, but these three categories have served me well. As you practice, keep these three simple principles in mind:

1) Always give people an easy way to opt out. Not everyone will be open to talking, and that’s okay.
2) Smile, make eye contact, and treat people with the dignity they deserve. Let them feel valued.
3) Don’t get discouraged if the conversation stays surface-level. Even small moments of kindness honor God and reflect His love.

Next week, we’ll focus on “bridge questions”—how to move a conversation from surface level toward deeper connection and, Lord willing, a gospel opportunity.

In the meantime, may God bless you with fruitful conversations and faith-building moments as you seek to Know Their Story this week!