Episode 8 – How to improve in small talk Script: To most of us, making small talk doesn’t come naturally. It is a skill that requires practice. We have all been there. You are at a party, or conference, and you try to start a conversation with somebody you just met, or even more challenging, you are trying to join a conversation with a bunch of people that you don’t know. Here are 7 tips. 1. Introduce yourself. The best way to break the ice is to introduce yourself. “To break the ice” is to do or say something to make people feel more relaxed in a social situation. Here is an example of how to start a conversation at a wedding. “Hi, my name is Audrey. I am the bride’s best friend. How do you know the couple?” 2. Have some topics in your mind – for example, current events that are not related to politics. Don’t talk about politics with people you don’t know. How about talking about a new movie? Your last trip? Sports game? If you are attending a work event, make sure you are up-to-date on the latest industry news. 3. Ask open ended questions. Asking a “yes or no” question is one of the fastest ways to kill a conversation because it doesn’t give you anything to build on. (Note: Open ended questions are what, when, how, where, why.) Instead of saying “Did you like the movie?” Say “What did you think about the way the movie ended?” Instead of saying “Are you a friend of the bride?” Say “How did you meet the couple?” Instead of saying “Are you a business major, too?” Say “Which classes are you taking right now? 4. Agree, then add something. If you’re at an event and someone makes an observation about your surroundings, the host, or even something totally unrelated, go with it. Their statement can be a good opportunity to add your own observations, establish a connection, and move forward into a conversation. First, agree with what they have said, then add your own take, and follow it up with an open-ended question that leaves room to move to a new topic. Here’s how it might look in action: Someone says: “This cocktail is pretty good, huh?” You say: “It is. It really complements (meaning: go with) the appetizers. Have you tried them yet?” 5. Be complimentary. Complimentary means praising, flattering. If you want to seem friendly and approachable, find nice things to say about others. 6. Let them teach you something. No one is an expert on every topic. If somebody mentions something you don't know about, don't let the conversation die there. Use it as an opportunity for conversation. People love to talk about themselves and things they are passionate about, so express your curiosity and allow them to share more knowledge with you. Here are some ideas for how to do this: · “I’ve never been fly-fishing before. What is it like?” · “I’m not familiar with that program yet. Is it difficult to learn?” 7. Have an exit strategy. Sometimes you just need to get away. That’s okay. Making a smooth exit is also a part of being skilled at small talk. You could excuse yourself to the restroom or the buffet, but the easiest way to get out of a conversation is to be polite and direct. Let them know you enjoyed speaking with them and that you’re going to direct your attention to something else now. Here are some examples: · “It was lovely meeting you. I’m going to refresh my drink and check in with the host.” · “Excuse me, but I just saw someone I need to speak with. It was nice chatting with you.” · “I’m so glad we met. I hope to run into you again later on.”

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