I try to talk about other subjects. Ask about kids. If your co worker has kids ask them about them. Hobbies, Sports, Band/Orchestra. Most proud parents love talking about their kids. If your colleague is short with the answers as it pertains to their children. Back off the subject. Things at home might not be going too well. Move on to sports. Favorite teams? Playoffs? Been to any live games lately? Talk stats. Memorable games and stadiums.

Then you can move on to music, movies, beer. My captain and I talked about The Grateful Dead for about an hour last night in cruise. I had no idea he was a deadhead. And he probably assumed the same of me. Until i brought it up. The majority of us aren't complete pilot stiffs. Some are. Those are challenging trips.

There is always something to talk about. Just dont make it akward and do the 20 minutes of silence and then click on the hot mic and utter "So.......do you like stuff?" Good conversation flows and segues from one subject to the next. The key to good conversation is asking questions. My favorite cruise talk is with someone of a completely different background and someone that has an entire different set of interests and hobbies. Ive learned a lot about cricket, sailing, cooking, carpentry. Everyone has a story. When in doubt, quote movies and living the dream. You're bound to have something in common or at least learn something new from anyone and everyone.