Let's be honest, most of us cringe at the thought of having to start up a conversation with a stranger. First, you have to decide what your opening question is going to be, then you try to keep the dialogue moving along before having to figure out how to end this excruciating moment in a respectful way. What if the person hijacks the conversation or, even worse, treats you like you're a brick wall? Well, here are some simple steps you can take to elevate some pressure and start to breathe again.