“One way to be popular is to listen attentively to a lot of things you already know.”
-George Bernard Shaw
How To Master Small Talk. The definition of small talk includes light conversation and idle banter; it’s what people say to one another to be social because it breaks the ice. By asking general questions, people connect. Small talk is not an in-depth conversation, but rather an exchange of social niceties. A lot is written about the importance of grooming and proper dress, but if we can’t back it up with intelligent conversation it won’t matter how we look once we open our mouths! If you want people to show you the money, show them how comfortable you can be in the social arena. This goes for friends and potential clients, and it takes little preparation.
How To Make Small Talk Look Easy. Be well informed. Before going to an event, read the headlines of the day. Ask the other person about themselves; they will be flattered that you asked. Be ready for a conversational lull and have a list of topics ready such as current events, new restaurants, hobbies, movies, mutual family or friends, and sports. Avoid anything personal such as family issues, health issues, gossip, off-color jokes, religion, or the cost of things. If all of the above fails, play the name game that Eleanor Roosevelt did while she was First Lady. She went down the alphabet until a subject sparked a listener’s interest, starting with the letter A For example, A: Airline travel is sure not what it used to be?; B: Have you read Dan Brown’s latest novel?; C: I hope the Chicago Cubs make it to the World Series? Get the idea?
