Schmoozing and Small Talk
Small talk breaks the ice and establishes a connection. It is a good way to determine what is a common topic between two people. And it doesn’t require original or profound conversation.
1. Be well-informed, read the newspaper; know what is happening
2. Focus on the other person and less on yourself
3. Do not interrupt – think before you speak
4. Listen WITH YOUR EARS AND YOUR EYES
5. Strive to make the other person relaxed, this will help your nervousness.
6. Always close a conversation before walking away from the other person.
Avoid these subjects with others you do not know very well:
7. Your health or diet habit; how much things cost.
8. Personal questions such as, "How much money do you make?"
9. Mean gossip; off color jokes; political comments; religious references
10. Controversial issues when you do not know others in the group
Practice these tips to improve your small talk ability.