The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

by Debra Fine

Stand in the doorway and survey the scene.

always easiest to break the ice with a few observations about the situation,

rather than asking for personal information.

As she’s responding, think about how to comment on what she’s saying, rather than on your next question. This exercise does

wonders to sharpen your listening skills.

It takes a higher level of listening to make a follow-up comment than

it does to ask a follow-up question. If

They’ll usually prompt the other person to speak or to ask you questions.

When you comment on someone’s response, they will be prompted to say something in return.

response to the follow-up comment or disclosure? Use one of the follow-up questions that you formulated