The Art of Small Talk
Anyone who's ever been caught at a wedding reception, business conference or party awkwardly discussing how nice the weather is knows that making small talk isn't as easy as one might think. On the contrary, conversing with strangers can be difficult and, at times, even painful. There is an art to making small talk, and it can be mastered. Here are four solid ways to turn idle chatter into a real conversation.
Don't Close Yourself Off
Our nonverbal body language accounts for the majority of how others perceive us. Make sure that you look approachable and when you're talking, make others feel comfortable and show that you're listening by utilizing the popular "SOFTEN" formula by psychologist Dr. Arthur Wassmer.
S
Smile
O
Open posture
Meaning don't stand with your arms folded defensively across your chest.
F
Forward lean
While speaking and listening, lean in, toward the other person to indicate interest.
E
Eye contact
When speaking, look away now and then to collect your thoughts, but when listening, eye contact is vital.
N
Nod
Rather than standing back, looking stiff, simply nodding along as someone speaks offers nonverbal feedback.
Look for Stories, Not Answers
Journalist Chris Colin and comedy writer Rob Baedeker suggest asking open-ended questions in their book What to Talk About
Mind the Mirroring
Matching someone's tone of voice or talking speed can easily make the other person in the conversation more comfortable. But you don't want to mimic them completely. And nothing stalls a conversation faster than repeating their observations. For example, if someone says, "It's a beautiful day," it seems polite to blandly agree: "Yeah, it's beautiful." But that will paralyze the discussion. Instead, add something personal: "Yeah, on days like this I usually like to get on my bike. Do you ride?"
Remember Names
Introductions often pass by in a blur. In between sips of a drink, names get blurted out quickly and as a result, no one remembers who anyone is. Or if it's an acquaintance you've met before, an introduction may not seem necessary. But that can lead to trouble. The key? Slow down, offer your name and stay present. Try to repeat the other person's name once you learn it to help you remember it. If someone has an unusual name, take time to learn it, advises Debra Fine, lecturer and author of The Fine Art of Small Talk
