7 Smart Ways to Break the Ice and Have an Easy Conversation With Your Virtual Date

Do you know that feeling of butterflies in your stomach, when you're looking to swoon over a date? Oh, we all do. 

While the realm of dating has witnessed drastic changes over the past few years—with dating apps having 'gamified' the process of finding love—what has remained, is the struggle to break the ice and loosen up with an individual who seems to be no more than a stranger.

It wasn't up until now, owing to the ongoing global pandemic, that online dating gained immense popularity. In the pursuit of finding a potential soulmate (or to build an easy-going, casual relationship) a bunch of romantics jumped on the 'virtual dating' bandwagon, however, with minimal knowledge on how to crack its code! Contrary to popular belief, online dating requires a lot of effort and patience, possibly more than in-person dating. Yet, the platform is probably the most fun way to stir some interesting conversations, and instantly seep into each other's comfort zones. 

This mode of building relationships is particularly beneficial to gay folks, who often find it taxing to casually pick a date at the bar (after all, it's difficult to tell who's into whom!) Palash Borah from Blued India—an app fostering GBTQ connections—tells you *exactly* how to add some sugar and spice to make virtual dating incredibly nice, i.e. the best conversation-starter tips, right from the horse's mouth. 

 

1) Kickstart Your Conversation With a Twist

 

Trust us, the orderly, formal greetings will land you nowhere but in a super awkward place. So, why not give the hilarious knock-knock joke a first shot? (or any other witty one you have up your sleeve). 

 

2) Blast From the Past 

 

To skip the initial awkwardness, tell your date one of your most memorable stories or anecdotes from the past, that may or may not be true (and get them to figure which one it is!) This will certainly lead to some light laughter and harmless chuckles, and can be counted as a commendable move.

 

3) Hypothetical Scenarios

 

Why not begin your conversation by describing where you’d have set up this date instead, if it weren't for the lockdown? Walk them through how the date would go—with vivid details, if you wish. This simple hack will not only make your date interesting, but will leave your partner wanting more. In short, a win-win.

 

4) The Future of Communication—GIFs

 

A 'giphy' is a language in itself. Thanks to the latest technology, there are an array of giphy stickers available, that can be used to turn a conversation from drab to fab. What better way to boost your conversation, than adding a dozen ounces of fun to it? 

 

5) Conversation-Starters Based On Social Research

 

While you must steer away from coming across as a total creep (and full-blown stalker), it is important that you look up your date on social media and pen down a few points that caught your eye. For instance, you could casually inquire about their Instagram handle name, or their unusual display picture. This may suggest that you are genuinely interested in learning more about them, and their quirks. 

 

6) You Can't Go Wrong With a Games Night

 

Online dating has always been about playing the field—so, take the opportunity to play some fun games that'll make the process of 'opening up' less tortuous and daunting. Get to know about your date's interests, likes and dislikes, via the game!

 

7) To Unleash the Creative You

 

As they rightly say, food is the way to the heart. Maybe consider whipping up a recipe together (virtually), and allow for some beautiful memories to be woven, alongside the mess that is created. Alternatively, pick an art of your choice—dancing, painting, sketching etc—and let your creative juices flow. You could also exchange music playlists with one another, to get to know each other’s tastes.

 

In the end, it's all about being bold and just going for it. If you want to scratch the surface and genuinely build a bond with your date, you've got to dig deep.