The commonality in needs and experiences not interests.

Im certain both eat food, everyone needs to relax or unwind at times

You will easily connect when you talk about food, its another open ended question after all.

Or ask what they do when they free, when not working, as about their hobbies too.

You may not like what they fancy, I mean its not fits for all. If when free they bake and try new recipes, let see what you do sleep? Write? Swim? Dance? Work extra hours at your place? Meditate? Go out? Wow I promise an endless conversation on this.

Talk them about that awkward moment recently you had.

Almost anyone alive has had an awkward experience…they are funny, and they cut across almost any differences. They also make you seem completely relatable.

There are so many ways to connect with people, but focus on common needs and experiences all humans share, and you can knock it out of the park with almost anyone.

Cheers