I always feel awkward in this situation...?

Question

I've gone out to eat with friends and had people who I've had classes with wait on me. Sometimes I've worked on projects or studied with these people, but I've never spoken to them outside of doing things for the class.

I never know what to say to them when this happens. I usually just say hi. I feel bad for not making conversation with them because I kinda know them but they're working and I'm out with other people.

What's the right thing to do in that situation?

Answer 1

You can always ask them how they are and start a quick conversation just be in mind of how busy they may be. And as long as they will be yourserver the whole nite u will have plenty of chances to talk to them. Just dont take alot of time away from ur friends.

Answer 2

I always try to be polite....you don't want to get them in trouble while they are working by taking up too much of their time....there also may be certain people you may not want to be too friendly with (for whatever reason) so you may want to keep your distance a bit without comming off as 'snobbish'.

I always try to be 'happy' to see anyone I may run into that I know (even if I don't know them very well).

You could always say hello and maybe say something like..wow, I didn't realize you worked here, that's great or how do you like it?....and leave it at that...don't forget to smile!

never burn bridges......

Answer 3

Just be casually friendly.

"Oh hi, I didnt know you worked here "

Then lead the conversation back to your table of friends.  

"She was in a class of mine last year .  I dont think we are ready to order yet.  Can you come back in a few minutes".

  Just ease away from the conversation to the regular order of business.

Wait til you go the hospital for surgery, and one of the interns  once sat by you in  history class.  I had that happen.   Luckily, they put me out, so I didnt have to deal with it for long.  :-)

I dont even like to think about  what I said, did or what he saw--while I was out. Just be thankful yours is only a restaurant.

Answer 4

first they are at work and not there to  socialize so just speak and order you food so they can take care of their work

Answer 5

You don't have to start a conversation you can just say "hi" if they see a group of people with you they'll probaly just wave back and continue(if they don't mind the other people they might start a conversation with you ^-^)