Small Talk Survival Strategies You Need To Know

Happy New Year!

Ready to get this year started? 

Ready to jump confidently into conversations and network like a pro this year?

When meeting new prospects/clients/etc. for the first time, you are sure to get bogged down with small talk. If you take charge of the dialogue and turn it into something interesting, you become the rescuer of the situation. You leave a great first professional impression.

Quick tips for surviving small talk:

Do Your Research

Do you know who you will be meeting? If so, find out a few details about them in advance. Use the points to ask questions constructed to get people talking. For instance, “I hear you enjoy golfing. Where is your favorite course?”

Give a Memorable Introductions

When you introduce people, say the names slowly so everyone can hear. Also, be sure to tell some interesting facts about the person you are introducing, so they have something to talk about instantly.

Remember People’s Names

In social situations, most people do not even put in any effort. The very fact that you do ensures you will stand out in the crowd. To learn a name, use it right away, and then use it another one or two times in the conversation. Forgot it already? Be honest and ask again.

Give Long(ish) Replies

If you are asked a simple question that can be answered in a few words, or even yes/no, answer more detailed than they requested. This provides them with something more to work with if they would like to ask a follow-up question. For example, “Yes, we did see that movie. I took the family when we were on vacation in Florida.”

Ask about Them

People love talking about themselves. Ask questions designed to draw them out.

Re-start the Discussion

When you hit a lull, throw out a question or conversation starter to get it going again. Most of the time, this happens once people run out of small talk. Having comments or questions prepared will get things turned around, with the awkward pause quickly forgotten.

Get Out Easily

Are you still stuck? Have your getaway plan in place. Begin with an “I need…” statement, such as, “Excuse me; I need to get some water” or “I should talk to the host.” Make sure to thank the person for the conversation. Add to the thanks something about the conversation itself, such as, “I appreciated discussing the stock market with you,” before you depart. This will leave a positive impression and demonstrate that you were listening.

Use these tips to get a fresh start to networking possibilities this year!

Take it from an introvert. You can do this.