There is a very good reason Small Talk is referred to as an ‘art’.

Imagine starting a conversation with someone you don’t know, with no idea of where the conversation will go, and no idea if the person will even join you in this conversation.

It’s certainly a stressful situation, and yet, we find ourselves practising this technique, more or less successfully, with everyone we have ever met.

In Gandy’s Speaking Strategies course, we start with Small Talk because it is the beginnings of our relationships with our clients and co-workers. It forms the foundation of all our team experiences and establishes the rapport that is critical to the success of all our relationships. When you are communicating in a second language, it is an essential skill.

There is one aspect of Small Talk that I stress to my participants: Small Talk is not to be confused with a full conversation. When we think of normal conversations, we already have some familiarity with the other person, we have previously spent time together, and most importantly, we share a kind of history.

Of course, a shared history makes small talk easier too.  Remembering what someone’s vacation plans were, which sports team she is following, what he likes to do on the weekend can all assist in initiating a small talk conversation.

Where does Small Talk fit into your life?  It becomes that initial contact that breaks the silence, that breaks the ice. And that is really all you need to do. Let the other person know you see and acknowledge her – or him. Take the opportunity to show him you are a friendly, open and really nice person. And then, go on your way.

You don’t need to carry on a long detailed conversation; all you need to do is plant the seed of the idea that you are someone who is approachable and engaging. The next time you run into this person, he may start a conversation with you – and that is the measure of success.

My advice to those of you who think you are too shy, too unsure and too uncertain of what to say…

Be bright… Smile!

Be brief…”Hi, how are you today?”

Be gone… They will remember.