Making polite conversation can be tough.

Here are some strategies to try when your mind is a blank:

1. Comment on a topic common to both of you at the moment

But keep it on the positive side!

2. Comment on a topic of general interest.

3. Ask open questions that can’t be answered with a single word.

4. If you do ask a question that can be answered in a single word, instead of just supplying your own information in response, ask a follow-up question.

5. Ask getting-to-know-you questions.

6. React to what a person says in the spirit in which that that comment was offered.

Now, what to do if a conversation is just not working, and there’s no way to use the “Excuse me, I need to go get something to drink” line?

7. A friend argues that you should admit it! “We’re really working hard, aren’t we?” or “It’s frustrating—I’m sure we have interests in common, but we’re having a difficult time finding them.”