I Know Small Talk Isn’t Always Easy, But it Can Be!
I know small talk isn't easy. I know for a lot of people it can feel like pulling teeth. (I see you, introverts!) But, it doesn’t have to be something you dread. Sometimes, all it takes is a mindset shift and a bit of preparation. The “you never know” mindset can really help you get in the right headspace. You never know who you may meet, what you may learn, who you may be connected to, or who you may be able to help.
Once you’ve shifted your mindset, you’ll want some great conversation starters to stick in your back pocket to help you approach these conversations with more ease.
Tip: Don’t start a social conversation with “What do you do?” Opening a conversation with instantly asking someone about their profession may come off presumptuous or judgmental. Plus, someone’s job may not be an accurate representation of who someone is or communicate what they are passionate about. Now, there’s a good chance that work will come up naturally in conversation. In the U.S., we are a very work driven culture. However, I would not recommend starting off the conversation with that topic.
My Favorite Conversation Starters For Social Situations
(yes, I actually use these!)
How do you know the host?
How did you two meet? (if you are standing next to friends or partners)
Did you have to travel far to get here?
What are you looking forward to most this summer? (or another season, time frame, etc.)
Where is your favorite place to eat around here? (if you know everyone is local)
I am in need of a good show to watch (book to read, movie to watch, etc.) next as I just finished XYZ. Have you watched anything great lately?
Do you have any fun trips planned or been anywhere exciting lately?
Do you know anyone running the NYC marathon this year? (insert a relevant, non-controversial current event)
Have you ever been to this venue before?
I love your outfit!
Tip: Try other topics and conversation openers before you resort to talking about the weather. The topic is extremely overused and often doesn’t lead anywhere else. With that being said, if you’ve exhausted your other options, it is something you would automatically have in common with the other person/people. Try to lead with something else, but if you need it, the weather will be able to catch your fall.
Looking to learn and grow in your conversation skills even more? I have an on-demand webinar that you can watch at your own pace on your own time. The webinar is filled with tips and tricks to help you be a confident conversationalist from introducing yourself, to dealing with uncomfortable questions, to getting out of conversation you no longer want to be in, and everything in between. You can learn more about the webinar here.
Photo credits: AppleTV (episode one of Palm Royale)