Small talk can be one of the most intimidating things about business networking. Fear of getting into an awkward conversation keeps many people away from events that could propulse their business forward. By keeping only two objectives in mind, you can develop this useful skill for creating new business opportunities. And small talk can actually become enjoyable!
In her book The Fine Art of Small Talk, Debra Fine specifies two objectives for engaging in small talk. The first is to take the risk. Take the risk of starting a conversation with a stranger. I’ve been the one over by the nachos hoping someone would start a conversation with me. Instead, I had to learn to go out on a limb and seek out someone to talk to.
After all, the good fruit is out on the limb. – Frank Scully, paraphrased
The second objective when networking is to assume the burden of the conversation. Take the responsibility to make it a memorable conversation in which the conversation partner feels “included, valued and comfortable.” Do not expect the other person to carry the conversation forward. Take that initiative.
Small talk is a learned skill that takes practice. Keeping these two objectives in mind will help you perfect this skill.
** Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash