Making small talk with strangers at a business event: Does the thought fill you with dread? It’s not easy having small talk with people you don’t know. If you’ve ever ended up with a frozen smile on your face as you frantically think of a topic to discuss, here are some tips to make it easier.
1. Prepare topics of conversation in advance. Chances are, before heading to a social or business event, you’ll think about what you’ll wear, how you’ll get to the event, and even where you’ll park. How often do you plan what you will say once you get there?
Before the event, plan three or four topics of conversation. This will save you from a frantic search for a new topic when the conversation stops.
At a business event, find out what’s happening in your industry. Read professional magazines and newsletters in your field to stay current.
Stay abreast of current events. Read local and national newspapers. Read the top news and headlines to find topics of interest. Watch local and national news so you are not in the dark about recent developments. Then plan at least one topic from your industry and one topic of general interest that you can discuss.
2. Use an opening line to start the conversation. Don’t worry, you don’t need a shiny opener. In fact, it can stop the conversation because when you say something strange or unexpected, people may be momentarily surprised if they aren’t sure how to respond.
Stick to simple topics like the weather or why you’re at the event. That’s why we talk about weather: it’s something everyone can talk about!
A compliment is always a great opener. Comment on the person’s unusual tie or necklace, or wonderful appetizers. Just make sure that your compliment is sincere and not too personal.
3. Get the conversation going. The best way to do this is to start with your shared experience, like the event you attend. Ask about the person’s relationship to the event or group. Ask for their opinion on the speaker or how they know the host. Or talk about the place or city you are visiting.
Any of these questions gives you an instant connection because you’ve had the same experience.
Remember that at business events, people want to meet new people. Be friendly, use your opening line, and talk about the event. You will surely make the conversation move forward.
