You grew up with the message not to talk to strangers.  Now some redhead is telling you that you should talk to strangers.  Huh?

Let me be clear.  The message to not talk to strangers is still a good idea for children. I teach kids to run like the wind and make a lot of noise if a stranger approaches him/her in the park to ask about a lost puppy or some other similar ruse.

Rather my encouragement to talk to strangers is directed toward older teens, college co-eds and adults.  Have you ever been alone in an elevator with a stranger?  Of course you have, but I mean with just you and one other person.  Odds are favorable that absolutely nothing malicious will happen during that elevator ride; though the potential for harm does still exist.

Rather than ride in silence while staring at your shoes follow these tips to give you the upper hand:

• Never position yourself so that others have the opportunity to stand behind you.  Rather stand so that you have a clear view of the other person – either facing or at an angle, preferably at the front of the elevator car, near the numbers.
• Create a distance at least an arm’s length away.
• Next speak to the stranger. Make a comment that alerts him that you can identify him and that you are very aware of his presence.  “Wow for a second I thought you were my brother.  You two could be twins.  He’s about the same height and even wears his hair the same.”

In this situation, talking to a stranger conveys that you are a confident woman.  It gives off the aura of “don’t even think about trying anything, bub.”  And it also puts you in a position of ‘no surprises.’  You’re looking right at him, so a sneak attack is no longer possible.

Implement these tips in any situation you find yourself alone with another person(s) and feeling slightly uncomfortable.  Even if you’re scared out of your wits, this is the time to fake it until you make it and talk to strangers!