Most peoples favorite subject is themselves, even if they don't think so. "I" is one of the most common words in the English language. Just ask people questions about themsleves without being creepy or prying. Like the old saying interesting is interested. Start simple like their job or where their from. Compliments are always good too.
Also I agree with the other post How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie is excellent. Read it then read it again. Good luck.
I was going to say this as well - The point and the book.
People love to talk about themselves. Just ask them questions....
1. Do you have kids?
2. What are the kids up to?
3. Do you have any vacations planned?
4. Where have you been recently?
5. What do you do for fun?
6. I'm looking for a good book, have you read anything good? Same for movies, Netflix, TV...
7. Admit something that you wish you wouldn't have done....but it needs to be small. "I tried to make a new dish last night but it didn't turn out very good. Do you have any favorite recipes?"....Not "I was arrested when I was a kid."
I try to make a connection with each person around something small - an inside joke or something that we share. With the receptionist, I know she loves her grandkids - so I always ask how they are doing, what did they do for X-Mas, that kind of stuff.
I try to listen more than talk - I just use questions to get them started.