Topics for Small Talk in Conversations
Being able to schmooze effectively can mean the difference between getting the job and spouse you want and leading a successful, happy life; or spending your Saturdays alone, eating frozen dinners and needle pointing in front of the TV. If you want to make new friends and have a successful social life, master the finer points of small talk with a few standard topics for conversation starters.
Other People Are Reading
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Work
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Ask the other person what she does for a living, or ask where she works. Make sure you really listen to her answer, and comment positively on it. When she’s finished talking about her job, discuss yours. Use a light touch with the subject; it’s just small talk, after all, not a job interview.
Props
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If you’re approaching someone reading a book, ask what it is she is reading. Even if you can see the title on the cover, ask anyway. It will give the person a chance to talk to you about the book and show if she’s interested in you. If she’s not interested, she will answer you and continue reading or look away. If you’re both at a bar and a TV is on, ask what the show is. Keep an eye out for telltale body language.
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Phones
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Ask if you can borrow the other person's phone. Call your house and hang up. You can then tell him he has your phone number now, if he wants to give you a call some time. Make sure you don’t dial your cell phone, especially if it’s in your purse and it would ring to blow your cover.
Advice
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If you’re at a coffee house or a bar, ask the other person his opinion about what he thinks you should order. Tell him you’d just like a fresh perspective, then take his advice.
Compliments
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Tell him you like his swanky running shoes. Tell her how stunning she looks in that dress. Be it a pair of shoes, a watch, a head of hair, a hat; find something to compliment that will lead to a conversation.
Music
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Share your opinion about the music playing in the restaurant. Make sure you ask the other person his opinion so the conversation doesn’t come to an abrupt stop. You can always continue talking about music, change the conversation to talk about current events or move on to discuss something you feel passionate about.
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References
Resources
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