10 phrases that wise people never say when they meet someone new

For many people, meeting new people is not easy. Talking to someone for the first time can bring a lot of anxiety. 

So what should you say - or not say - when you meet someone new? Smarter individuals understand the importance of choosing their words carefully when meeting someone new. 

Here are 10 phrases that wise people never say when meeting someone new:

1. 'I think...' - Talking about yourself makes you seem less confident.

Listening is an essential skill that helps us make better decisions by truly understanding what others are saying. Instead of dominating the conversation with their own opinions, smart people focus on what the other person has to share. 

2. 'You have a fantastic smile' - Comments about appearance can cross boundaries.

"Avoid commenting on a person's appearance or belongings – even if they're positive – when you first meet them. It's too personal and inappropriate. Even after you get to know them, be careful what you say and why," experts say.

3. 'Who did you vote for?' - Avoid political conversations with new people.

If you think someone will agree with you, you'll assume your relationship will be strengthened. But there's a real chance you'll disagree - where will that question lead you? Smarter people know that avoiding political topics in introductory discussions is safer.

4. 'I'm really upset with my partner' - This creates a negative tone and lowers trust.

When you meet someone for the first time, you have to put up some walls of protection. While that doesn't mean you have to treat that person any differently, it does mean you have to be careful. You never know if this conversation of yours will remain as private as the one you're discussing. 

5. 'What a beautiful weather today' - Relying on boring clichés makes you feel disconnected.

Talking about the weather has become a cliché and the most used form of conversation. Smart people avoid small talk to prevent shallow conversations and create meaningful connections from the start.

6. ‘How old are you?’ – This can feel inappropriate and uncomfortable for the other person.

Most people know that asking someone's age is inappropriate, especially when meeting for the first time, and can make you seem rude or intrusive. 

7. 'How many months are you?' - Assuming a pregnancy is offensive.

If there's one topic as difficult to bring up in a first-time conversation as age, it's weight. By asking someone about a pregnancy you don't know exists, you're automatically making assumptions about the person's weight. 

8. 'Are you married?' - Asking about your relationship status can make you seem like you're poking your nose where it doesn't belong.

This seemingly innocent question about someone's relationship status can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and make others feel uncomfortable. It's okay to be curious or ask if you want the person to be in a relationship with you, but asking about it requires tact and timing.

9. 'It was a pleasure meeting you' - The very abrupt ending can seem insincere and one-sided.

Sometimes, this can be harmless and appropriate to end a conversation, but only if it's truly two-way. On the other hand, if you're only asking questions and the other person is only answering, abruptly ending the conversation with this phrase can leave a bad taste.

10. 'Sorry if I bothered you' - Apologizing unnecessarily makes you seem less confident.

Many people think that starting by apologizing is the best approach, but apologizing before speaking can lower someone's trust and damage the continuity of this still-unripe relationship. 

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Source: Your Tango