Talking to strangers doesn't have to be like pulling teeth. Don't wait too long to make your approach. Take a deep breath, think of a good opening, and go talk to the person! Try a simple "Hey, I'm [your name]!" Make a witty or helpful comment about something that's going on around you. Ask simple questions about where the person comes from, what they do, or how they came to know a mutual friend of yours. Begin with small talk, ask authentic questions, and let the conversation naturally bloom into something interesting. Remember: odds are that this person is just as nervous about talking to a complete stranger!