A good way is to ask an open - ended question. In the context of'meeting someone new social story', it could be something like 'What do you like to do for fun?' This gives the other person a chance to talk about themselves, which most people enjoy. And it also helps you to get to know them better.
Once I was at a coffee shop. I was waiting for my order when a girl with a bright smile asked if she could share my table as the place was crowded. We started chatting. She was a traveler from another country. We talked about different cultures and our favorite travel destinations. Before leaving, we exchanged numbers and became friends. It was such a simple yet wonderful encounter.
Meeting new people and learning their stories can bring a sense of connection and community. In a world that can often feel isolating, these interactions remind us that we are all part of a larger human story. It might also lead to new opportunities, whether it's a new job lead, a travel buddy, or just a new friendship that adds value to your life.
You can learn new things. People from different backgrounds have different knowledge and experiences. Through meeting them, you can gain new perspectives, like learning about a new culture or a different way of thinking.
Share something about yourself too. But don't dominate the conversation. You can start with a simple fact like 'I went to a really interesting concert last week.' It gives the other person a chance to ask you more questions and keeps the conversation flowing.
It helps in improving communication skills. Social stories can give you ideas on how to express yourself clearly and listen actively when meeting new people. They might include examples of good listening and how to respond appropriately in a conversation.
You can learn about different perspectives. For example, in my coffee shop encounter, the girl had a different view on life because of her travels. It broadens your own view.
One way is by using social stories to learn about common social cues. For example, if a social story describes how people usually greet each other in a new setting, like shaking hands or smiling and saying hello. This gives you an idea of what to expect and do when meeting new people.