Art of small talk ; How to talk to any one ?
Introduce yourself and use a 'tag line', e.g. Hi, I'm Jules from Munich. This can get the conversation started as your colleague can ask a question about your home town or your trip.
When your colleague introduces himself / herself, try to repeat his / her name when you reply, or use their name later in the conversation.
Break the ice with a comment about a current news story or a remark about the event you're at, its location and the weather.
Avoid these topics of conversation: your health, your private life, gossip. The best conversation topics are sports, books, theatre, movies, food, museums and travel. Try and find a shared experience or something else you have in common.
Keep the conversation flowing by not monopolizing the conversation. Ask a question and really listen to your colleague's reply. Then respond with comments from your own personal experience and ask another question.
Ask open questions which require more than a one-word answer. If your colleague asks a Yes / No question, give some extra information.
Sounds like hmm and phrases like Really* can be used to indicate that you are listening and interested, and will encourage your colleague to tell you more.
Share information about yourself but keep it positive. People don’t like colleagues who are negative, depressed or who complain a lot.
Remember your exit strategy. Have some phrases ready for excusing yourself politely and moving to another group of people, e.g. It was nice talking to you. I'll see you later. A transition word like Well ... can also communicate that it's time to stop.
If you've enjoyed talking with your colleague, tell them so, e.g. I've really enjoyed talking with you. I hope we have the chance to talk again soon. Leave a positive final impression with a smile and strong handshake.
