8 ways to master the art of small talk

Getting good at the art of small talk is not only appreciated in professional circles but can be a smart way to boost your career. Remember it’s not about simply initiating a conversation. It’s about engaging your audience with a meaningful conversation. It is recommended to read the classic Everyone communicates but few connect by John Maxwell, for more on this subject.

You could be taking the elevator one minute or standing in a lunch line the other or presiding over a business meeting. Every instance presents an opportunity to strike up a conversation,  show empathy and leave the individual with a positive impression. Surprisingly, these are the very things that are noticed in leaders.

When you master small talk, it can open doors to new opportunities, connections and relationships. Simply find common ground, wear a smile, carry a pleasant personality and always have a pleasant tone. Here are eight effective phrases that you can use to get started!

1) “How’s your day going?” (Inquire about anything)

Do not dismiss it as a trivial venture. Inquiring about someone’s day is a popular approach that can quickly break the ice. An open-ended question, it shows that you care and it can create a connection. Plus, it allows anyone to respond in a manner they deem fit. It gives you an insight into their current mood and state of mind.