How to Make Small Talk at a Party

Keep the conversation light at a party.

At a party, you are expected to make small talk with other guests. A party is not the place to argue a controversial subject or criticize a person. Rather, it is a time for light-hearted conversation and laughter. It is also an opportunity for the guests to get to know each other and to develop friendships. Be courteous to your host and other guests by displaying natural conversation skills.

Instructions

1. Greet people you know at the party. Ask a person you know how his day has been or what he did that day. If you have something in common with the person, such as attending the same class or working at the same job, bring up a topic related to that. For example, ask your acquaintance what he likes about the job or how long he has been working there. Continue to chat about your common experiences.

2. Introduce yourself to someone you don't know at the party if she appears friendly and sober. Ask her how she knows the host of the party. Use that information as a springboard for more conversation. For example, if she knows the host through school, find out where she attends and what your new acquaintance is studying. Answer the other person's questions with interesting information that can lead to further discussion. Don't give long, complicated answers. Keep the conversation light and cheerful.

3. Practice appropriate conversation manners in small talk at a party. If you are with a group of people, pay attention to the topic being discussed. Don't interrupt the speaker, but wait for a lull in the conversation to say something. Ask a question or make a comment that pertains to the topic. Maintain eye contact with the person with whom you are talking to, keeping a friendly tone in your voice. Don't try to monopolize a conversation or make a speech.

4. Show an interest in the other person's ideas, activities and opinions. People like to talk about themselves. Share information about yourself so others can get to know you a little better. You don't need to tell your life story, but talk about where you work or attend school, a favorite sport or hobby and how you know the host of the party.

5. Stay informed on current topics. Before you go to a party, consider who else might be at the party and anticipate topics that might be discussed. If a conversation is lagging, make a smooth transition by mentioning something related to the original topic. For example, if the conversation topic was about basketball, talk about another sport, such as baseball.

References

• Rice University: English As a Second Language
• Georgia College: Frequently Asked Questions; College Panhellenic Council Questions