Making small talk and developing a conversation



How to small talk and developing a conversation
We have all had to engage in small talk at one point in our lives or another. For some folks, the art of small talk comes naturally. For others (me included), commenting on the weather and how delicious the bacon-wrapped dates are can get a little old. While I am no chit-chat expert, I have learned a few tips over the years on “How to small talk”

1. Remember names and use them.
I’m sure I’m not the only one when I say that names are not my forte. Tell me your telephone number and I can recite it back to you. But, names? Forget it!
However, using names in small talk is important. The conversation will flow better, because it makes the other person feel acknowledged and more comfortable speaking with you. I try to repeat their name after they introduce themselves. It helps me to remember it.
”Emily, I’m Jennifer. How are you enjoying the party/convention/seminar?”

2. No one-worded answers.
Think about how fast a conversation dies when one person gives a one-worded response.
”Jennifer, what do you do for a living?”
”CPA.”
”You must love numbers!”
”Yes.”
One-worded answers sound cold and disengaging. It gives the other person the feeling that you don’t want to talk to them. (Unless that is the case, then by all means, keep your responses short!)

3. Ask questions.
It’s no secret that people like talking about themselves. Start with a simple question and build upon it. Use what they are telling you to form more questions about topics that you are genuinely interested in hearing about. People can tell when you couldn’t care less about what they are saying.

4. Offer input.
Small talk isn’t just about asking questions. Offering your experience and input can add more depth to the conversation. You probably have something in common if you are at the same event. Use that to find some common ground and start up a conversation.

5. Smile.
It is usually best to keep the conversation light and fun. A simple smile makes you that much more approachable and shows that you are enjoying the conversation.

6. Know when to leave.
When you feel like the small talk has run its course, find a smooth way out before the awkward silence.
”I need to try some of that tiramisu you were talking about before they run out! It was so nice chatting with you. Enjoy your night!”
Small talk is like anything else — it gets easier with practice. Eventually, it will start to feel more natural and less forced. You may even make a new friend!

Source :
http://www.savetosplurge.com/small-talk/

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