Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a huge fan of office holiday parties. I won’t be the one on the dance floor, singing Karoake (okay, you twisted my arm…maybe one song!), or trying to increase my bonus via copious alcohol consumption.

The thing that kills it for me the most, is really mundane, perfunctory conversations with no soul. I’m not expecting a late night with your closest friends/family level of conversation, but something better than talking about mortgage rates and the project you are working on.

What I noticed over the years is I’m a big part of the problem. By asking boring and mundane questions, I’m inviting boring and mundane conversations. Shame on me.

What I’ve noticed more recently is when you ask better questions, it sparks better conversations. It’s still a work function so we’re not asking about your most intimate secrets. We’re asking questions which lead the person to use their imagination and which leave the door open to deeper discussion.

When you ask better questions, it sparks better conversations.

Below for your review and possible use are some examples. Use wisely and spice up your next holiday party. The people talking to you will thank you and wonder where you got so much #charisma!

• What is your greatest fear?

• What is your guilty pleasure?

• When and where are you happiest?

• Which talent do you wish you had?

• If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

• What do you consider your greatest achievement?

• What is your most prized possession?

• What do you value most in a friend?