You know where you are with a number.

They're black and white, factual, and universally understood.

You can't argue with a number. So why not use them to start a conversation?

The next time you're grabbing a coffee, collecting your dry-cleaning, or even on a first date, try out this technique.

• THEM: Hi, how are you?

• YOU: Probably a 7 out of 10. How about you?

• THEM: Oh... maybe an 8 out of 10.

• YOU: What would make it a 9?

• THEM: Well, I'd love to ........

And that's your door of opportunity to take the conversation beyond the mundane.

They've just shared some precious personal information which you can follow up with a "sounds interesting, tell me more" if you have time, or simply wish them a "I hope you achieve that 9 soon!" if you don't.

Small talk, at the end of the day, is simply about making human connection. Let's keep it as simple as possible!

Good luck!