Small Talk

Small Talk Help, dont make me talk to people I dont know! This is what I amthinking if I have to mingle at a meeting, seminar, or party. I am in awe of people who can ask good questions and engage in conversation with complete strangers. I googled small talk and the most current articles I found were from 2007. EitherI am a bad googler or people are not using this phrase. Hmmm. Here are some tips to keep in mind: Pay attention to what is being said. Be a good listener and ask good followup questions. If they say I really enjoy coming here ask them why. Stay current on current events. This will arm you with topics to ask about and be able to speak about as well. What do you think about the Share a short story from your day. Remember to ask them a question, like, has this ever happened to you? The idea is to get them talking about themselves. We love being asked good questions so we can talk about what we know. Heres the thing to remember. You need to practice small talk if it doesnt come naturally. So practice at the grocery store, school event, or where ever you go. Ask the produce person a question. Ask a fellow shopper why they like that product. If feels awkward, but smile, and that can melt away the uncomfortable feeling. If you are one of those who can talk to anyone, what are your secrets?