How to Master Small Talk—And Why It Matters
In today’s fast-paced workplace, influencing, stakeholder engagement, and visibility are key to career success. It’s no longer just about how well you perform—it’s about how well you connect. Building strong relationships, nurturing a network, and creating trust are essential skills that set successful professionals apart.
At the heart of all this? Mastering the art of conversation. But what if you’re not naturally chatty? The good news is, small talk is a skill anyone can develop! Alison Wood Brooks offers a fantastic framework called TALK, breaking conversation into four key areas:
T – Topics
Before heading into a networking event or social gathering, take a moment to think about topics that could spark an interesting conversation. If you know who you’ll be speaking with, tailor your topics to their interests. Having 5–6 go-to subjects ensures you never run out of things to say. Conversations often fizzle out when we exhaust a topic, so practise smoothly transitioning between subjects—it’s a game-changer!
A – Asking Questions
Curiosity is key! Asking thoughtful questions not only shows interest but also keeps the conversation flowing. Research from speed dating studies reveals that people who ask the most questions tend to get the most matches—proof that showing genuine curiosity makes you instantly more likable.
L – Levity
Keep things light and fun. A simple smile or a shared laugh can work wonders in making conversations enjoyable. A Gallup survey found that the number of times people laugh or smile per day drops significantly after age 23, right when most enter the workforce. Small talk doesn’t have to be stiff—bring in warmth and humor to make a lasting impression.
K – Kindness
Approach conversations with openness and respect. Being non-judgmental and genuinely interested in other perspectives fosters trust and connection. When people feel heard and valued, they walk away remembering how you made them feel, even if they don’t recall every word of the conversation.
Final Thoughts
Small talk isn’t just about filling silence—it’s a powerful tool for building relationships, expanding opportunities, and boosting career success. With a little preparation and the right mindset, anyone can become a great conversationalist. So, next time you find yourself in a networking setting, relax, smile, and TALK!
About the author
Laura McGrath is an Executive Coach with a background in search and selection. She’s over 1,000 coaching hours with clients such as Virgin, BBC Studios, Virgin Partners, Booking.com Sum Up, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Gucci, BNP Paribas, Amazon and many start-up companies. She has a post graduate qualification in Executive Coaching from the IMI and has been a guest lecturer with Trinity College Dublin and TU Dublin. For more information call 087 669 1192 or email laura@isoar.ie.
