The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

25. Skiing here is always challenging. What are some of your favorite places to ski? 26. Who would star as you in a movie about your life? Why that person? 27. Who is the most famous person you’ve met? 28. Tell me about some of your New Year’s resolutions. 29. What’s the most antiestablishment thing you’ve ever done? 30. Describe a costume that you wor

Show Appreciation • It was wonderful to see you and hear about the convention. • I’ve really enjoyed talking with you about your new business. • I appreciate your willingness to share your expertise. • Thank you for the delightful conversation. • I’m so glad you introduced me to the subject of ______. It’s very interesting. • It’s nice to meet some

Using people’s names shows that you are interested in them and makes them feel special.

Dig deeper. When you engage in a conversation, don’t leave it too quickly.

always has an “I’m king of the world” story to tell.

6. What separates you and your firm from your competition? 7. Why does your company______? 8. Describe some of the challenges of your profession. 9. What do you see as the coming trends in your business? 10. What ways have you found to be most effective for promoting your business? 11. Describe your most important work experience. 12. What advice woul

He leaves no opportunity for his captive to offer a confession of any kind. The captive is not allowed to expand, offer additional evidence, ask questions, or even have a glass of water.

Here are a few tips business professionals can use to improve their small talk skills: • Be the first to say hello! • Introduce yourself. Act as if you’re the host and introduce new arrivals to your conversation partner or partners. • Smile first and always shake hands when you meet someone. • Take your time during introductions! Make an extra effo

Instead: I’ll get to you no later than next week. Tell people what you will do, not what you hope to do.

It is not about an agenda but is simply a way to acknowledge a person as being very real and there.