One thing I've done to improve my communication with strangers is to stop trying to think of the perfect way to start a conversation or question.

Some of the best conversations I've had started by me asking or telling someone something in a awkward or overly simplified way at first. It takes the pressure off of both of you and a more natural conversation takes place as you both work to get on the same page, which takes time and leads to more conversation.

In the past I'd think of the perfect sentence with little nuances and edge cases covered in that sentence to what I was trying to convey, which would result in no real conversation to even take place.

Of course you will run into people who are unfriendly and won't receive this well but overall it's lead to more pleasant and natural conversations.