Small Talk 101

Have you ever found yourself at a party or other occasion where you are with other people and can find absolutely nothing to talk about? Well, here are a few tips and topics to get you started.

One...ask another person where he/she is from. Once they tell you, ask them what that city/state is like. Ask them about the climate, places of interest, if there are any historical landmarks there, and other interesting questions.

Two...ask the person if they are single or married and if they have any children. If they have children ask their ages and other things about them. Even ask them if they have pictures. Parents are always proud to show off and talk about their children and spouses.

Three...ask them what they like to do in their spare time (nothing about their job since a lot of people do not like to talk about work). Ask them what their hobbies and interests are. Even ask them what their favorite movies and television shows are. Inquire as to what kind of music they prefer to listen to and who their favorite singers are.

Four...try to avoid any type of controversial subject or politics. In controversial subjects you may find you are on opposite sides leading to an uncomfortable time. Politics is nothing to talk about at parties, dinner meetings, or other gatherings (unless the entire thing is focused on politics). Politics can also be considered a controversial subject.

Five...talk about the current fads that are happening around the world. Talk about art and his/her and your favorite artist(s).

Six...discuss a book he/she and you have both enjoyed.

Seven...if you do happen to hit upon something you both have in common, then you have got several minutes or hours covered (depending on what subject it is).

Eight...since most people have some sort of favorite sport or at least one they enjoy talk to them about that sport. Also tell them what sport you like and why you enjoy watching it.

Nine...if you know someone from where they live, ask them if they are familiar with or know that person.

Ten...you can even talk about your favorite holidays and what you like to do during them. Do not go into details about money unless the other person brings up the subject.

Eleven...never, however, go into extremely personal details with someone you do not know. Do not ask them very personal questions (not even age). It is very impolite to ask someone what their annual salary is, what they make per hour, or exactly what their job is.

Twelve...if they tell you a neighborhood they live in and you know it happens to be "high society", do not ask them what their house costs or other personal questions about their house. Anything that you would feel uncomfortable answering, do not ask the other person.

In conclusion, making small talk at a gathering does not have to be an arduous task if you just know where to begin.

Source:

Personal experience of having to make small talk at gatherings and listening to others making small talk