I'll be the first to admit it – I hate small talk. Finding random topics to talk about is grueling, and I would much rather have a meaningful conversation. Maybe you feel the same way. But unfortunately, small talk is a part of life. This is how we get to know new people. It might be a hard skill to master, but there are ways to turn small talk into a conversation.
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1. Don't Ask Yes or No Questions
A yes or no question might be the first thing that pops into your mind. Just know that these questions rarely turn into a real conversation. To enjoy a back and forth dialogue, you have to do more and stimulate interest. For example...
Honestly, it's all about being genuinely curious. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to what the other person is saying. Dig a little deeper, and the conversation will naturally unfold into something more meaningful!
Start with something simple like a comment about your surroundings or something you genuinely find interesting about the other person. People love to talk about themselves, so show some interest!
Follow up on what they say. If they mention something interesting, use that as your jumping-off point. Share your own experiences or thoughts on the topic to build a connection!
Small talk can feel like you're walking over the same old ground, but it doesn't have to be! Try to add your personality to it, make it light and fun – no pressure to prove anything.
Think about things that interest you! Maybe ask about recent movies they've watched, their favorite books, or even something as simple as what they enjoy doing in their spare time!
2. Ask Questions That Get the Other Person Talking
To transition from small talk to a conversation, ask questions that invite a story. Rather than ask the person, did you have a good day? You might try, what did you do today? Even if the only person only relaxed or went to work, she'll most likely avoid a one-word answer, but expand and provide details about her day. Maybe she sat through a boring meeting at work, or maybe she had an interesting conversation with a coworker.
Honestly, it's all about being genuinely curious. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to what the other person is saying. Dig a little deeper, and the conversation will naturally unfold into something more meaningful!
Start with something simple like a comment about your surroundings or something you genuinely find interesting about the other person. People love to talk about themselves, so show some interest!
Follow up on what they say. If they mention something interesting, use that as your jumping-off point. Share your own experiences or thoughts on the topic to build a connection!
Small talk can feel like you're walking over the same old ground, but it doesn't have to be! Try to add your personality to it, make it light and fun – no pressure to prove anything.
Think about things that interest you! Maybe ask about recent movies they've watched, their favorite books, or even something as simple as what they enjoy doing in their spare time!
3. Piggyback off a Statement She Makes
Asking a question is an excellent start. However, to keep the conversation going you'll have to listen and then piggyback off a statement she makes. For example, if she sat through a boring work meeting, you can make a joke about boring meetings or relate a personal experience. This establishes a common ground and sparks the other person's interest, and it'll be easier to engage in a back and forth discussion.
Honestly, it's all about being genuinely curious. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to what the other person is saying. Dig a little deeper, and the conversation will naturally unfold into something more meaningful!
Start with something simple like a comment about your surroundings or something you genuinely find interesting about the other person. People love to talk about themselves, so show some interest!
Follow up on what they say. If they mention something interesting, use that as your jumping-off point. Share your own experiences or thoughts on the topic to build a connection!
Small talk can feel like you're walking over the same old ground, but it doesn't have to be! Try to add your personality to it, make it light and fun – no pressure to prove anything.
Think about things that interest you! Maybe ask about recent movies they've watched, their favorite books, or even something as simple as what they enjoy doing in their spare time!
4. Come Prepared with Relevant Topics
Realistically, you might not be able to piggyback off every statement another person makes. No problem. If you know you're going to engage in small talk with people you don't know well, come prepared with relevant topics. This can be anything, such as a relevant news item or an upcoming local event. After the person finishes speaking, acknowledge their statement and then smoothly transition to another topic. If all else fails, talk about the weather. For example, the weather's been nice the past couple of days, how have you been enjoying the break from the cold?
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Realistically, you might not be able to piggyback off every statement another person makes. No problem. If you know you're going to engage in small talk with people you don't know well, come prepared with relevant topics. This can be anything, such as a relevant news item or an upcoming local event. After the person finishes speaking, acknowledge their statement and then smoothly transition to another topic. If all else fails, talk about the weather. For example, the weather's been nice the past couple of days, how have you been enjoying the break from the cold?
Sports are often a great topic; ask if they caught the latest game. If they mention a hobby, show interest and ask follow-up questions. Choices like books, movies, or even recipes can evoke a comfortable exchange. Be sure to listen actively to keep the conversation flowing naturally.
Honestly, it's all about being genuinely curious. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to what the other person is saying. Dig a little deeper, and the conversation will naturally unfold into something more meaningful!
Start with something simple like a comment about your surroundings or something you genuinely find interesting about the other person. People love to talk about themselves, so show some interest!
Follow up on what they say. If they mention something interesting, use that as your jumping-off point. Share your own experiences or thoughts on the topic to build a connection!
Small talk can feel like you're walking over the same old ground, but it doesn't have to be! Try to add your personality to it, make it light and fun – no pressure to prove anything.
Think about things that interest you! Maybe ask about recent movies they've watched, their favorite books, or even something as simple as what they enjoy doing in their spare time!
Sunshine and blue skies bring positivity and joy and it's important for every woman to take full advantage of it. Even when stuck indoors, it's still possible to enjoy some good vibes. Check out these unique tips on how to make the most of the weather right at your home. Let's celebrate every beautiful day, no matter where we are.
5. Talk a Little about Yourself
While you'll want to get the other person talking, don't bombard her with questions. The conversation shouldn't feel like an interrogation. So occasionally talk about yourself for a smoother, balanced conversation.
Honestly, it's all about being genuinely curious. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to what the other person is saying. Dig a little deeper, and the conversation will naturally unfold into something more meaningful!
Start with something simple like a comment about your surroundings or something you genuinely find interesting about the other person. People love to talk about themselves, so show some interest!
Follow up on what they say. If they mention something interesting, use that as your jumping-off point. Share your own experiences or thoughts on the topic to build a connection!
Small talk can feel like you're walking over the same old ground, but it doesn't have to be! Try to add your personality to it, make it light and fun – no pressure to prove anything.
Think about things that interest you! Maybe ask about recent movies they've watched, their favorite books, or even something as simple as what they enjoy doing in their spare time!
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6. Be Genuinely Interested
For a conversation to develop, show genuine interest. If it's obvious you're not listening to the other person, or if you're scanning the room looking for someone better to speak with, the other person will notice and she won't engage in conversation.
Honestly, it's all about being genuinely curious. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to what the other person is saying. Dig a little deeper, and the conversation will naturally unfold into something more meaningful!
Start with something simple like a comment about your surroundings or something you genuinely find interesting about the other person. People love to talk about themselves, so show some interest!
Follow up on what they say. If they mention something interesting, use that as your jumping-off point. Share your own experiences or thoughts on the topic to build a connection!
Small talk can feel like you're walking over the same old ground, but it doesn't have to be! Try to add your personality to it, make it light and fun – no pressure to prove anything.
Think about things that interest you! Maybe ask about recent movies they've watched, their favorite books, or even something as simple as what they enjoy doing in their spare time!
7. Don't Get Too Personal
Don't get too personal with the other person. Use good judgement and avoid touchy topics, such as religion and politics. You don't want to offend the other person, which can stop a conversation in its tracks.
Small talk can be challenging, but you can successfully transition into a conversation. The key is knowing what to say and how to engage the other person. What are other tips for turning small talk into a conversation.
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Comments
Clarabella: I'm with Valencia - I used to struggle with small talk in preference for a more fulfilling conversation. But it takes a little practice, and the will to move out of your comfort zone. You won't regret it. Sometimes, you can make such a big difference to others and give them a real lift! Keep practicing. It takes time, but the better you get at it, making the effort to connect and be good to people is well worth the effort!
Aliza: Exactly @Claire
peony: Just don't ask what they do. So boring. U start a conversation by saying what had happened to me in the day like. I ordered a box on sandwich at a shop but they gave me egg and cress instead and I am allergic to eggs hehhehe
Claire: I do this, it's just annoying when people just fob you off and gives you short replies.
Kierria: I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one who feels this way about small talk!!
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