Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Q: What is open2conversation.com?
A: Open2conversation.com is a website where you can purchase t-shirts and jackets with the O2C logo on them. In the future a section will be added where people share stories and experiences about making new friends, or just about a great conversation that took place as a result of wearing the O2C logo.

Q: What does the O2C logo mean?
A: It is a symbol that means you are approachable. When you wear it, or see someone else wearing it, you know you share a common interest…openness, and a desire to engage in conversation. You’re in the market and someone has a question about a product you are looking at - they can ask, knowing you will answer…you’re traveling and someone has a question about where you are going or where you have been - they can ask, knowing you will respond…you’re walking your dog and someone just wants to say ‘Hi’ and talk about…who knows what - they do, knowing you are open to conversation.

Q: Why do we need the O2C logo?
A: This is an important question and very dear to our hearts! We feel like there is a trend taking place that isn’t a positive one. People are so “plugged in” to new technologies that they seem “closed down” to the people around them. Cell phones, computers, iPods etcetera compete with interpersonal communication. Over the last 10 years, while technology provides endless hours of entertainment, people have become more insulated and as a result, less approachable. Couple that with a sense of uncertainty in our society today and we have people who have lost confidence in approaching new people. O2C wants to be a part of the solution - to help get people out of the house, into the world - with confidence in hand - and get talking! The O2C logo removes the perceived risk in the approach - so go ahead when you see someone wearing it- start a conversation.

Q: How will other people know what the O2C logo means when I am wearing it?
A: Well, first off you can tell them. Being curious about what a symbol on your t-shirt stands for is a totally acceptable conversation starter! Other than that, we are working on a marketing plan to spread the word…and yes, we are using the internet. It’s all about balance!

Q: When I see someone with an O2C t-shirt on, but I’m not wearing mine, what can I do?
A: Talk to them. You already know they are open to conversation. You don’t need to be wearing your t-shirt to know what the O2C logo means…you’ve got your conversation starter, now go meet someone new!

Q: I love being on the internet and using Facebook! Is open2conversation against Facebook?
A: No, not at all! Facebook is a fun way to stay in touch with friends and family. We just don’t want Facebook (or any other online social networking site) to replace “face to face” interaction. There is only so much time in a day, if it is spent in front of a computer screen, there might not be enough left to spend in actual “face to face” conversation. Really…a smiley face cannot replace a smile.

Q: You said something about online social networking “distancing us” from real life…what do you mean?
A: When you communicate with someone remotely (from a computer or texting on a cell phone) you cannot see the person you are “talking to” or feel the impact your words have on them. It often creates a conversation devoid of emotion. No cues from body language or intonation to gage what to say next…just the written word. Conversing this way removes the elements of accountability /responsibility you normally have for your words/actions when the conversation is taking place “face to face”, allowing for an emotional distance. The end result…people text and write things they wouldn’t normally say in “face to face” settings. As long as there are people in the world there will not only be a need, but also a desire for “face to face’ conversation. Once again, it’s all about balance!

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