The Indians Abroad

NRIs and ESL Tips: Importance of small talk in a conversation

Don’t tell your friends about your indigestions: “How are you!” is a greeting, not a question.
~Arthur Guiterman, A Poet’s Proverbs
 

Many of us, especially those with English as a second language (ESL),  often struggle with social communications and the language barrier. However, this article is written for anyone who may need some extra help with improving their communication skills.
Small talk is a conversation just for the sake of conversation. It does not have to have any specific topic or agenda. The small talk is considered a very important part of our overall communication or daily interactions with others.

Small talk is a big deal:  The small talk is important for so many reasons:

- it is essential for a smooth and effective communication with anybody we talk to.

- it creates a good first impression.

- it leads to a  lively and friendly conversation.

- if you are a good ’small talker’ you will come across as an open and more friendly person

- it is an essential tool for effective interaction in any social settings.

- it leaves a lasting impression on the other party.

- it gives you more confidence as a speaker.

Parts of conversation:

In terms of overall conversation, small talk is very important throughout any communications. Following are the key functions of a small talk in any speech or discussion:

1. Part of introduction – ‘hi there!’ :The small talk is generally part of the introductory conversation – a way to kick start a discussion. For example,  we can start by commenting on the weather or complementing the listeners before actual topic of discussion.

2. Time pass or continuity – ’so, what else is cooking?’ : Small talk provides a way to keep the conversation going; without long uncomfortable pauses. We can switch to small talk when there is nothing substantial to talk about.

3. Human touch – ‘glad to see you!’ : Small talk introduces a mood into the discussion.  A to-the-point conversation could sound too dry, boring or robotic, the small talk adds to the human touch.

4. Close-up remarks or good-byes – ‘Enjoy your day, bye for now’:   The close-up or parting remarks could include off-topic or meaningless light comments to end a discussion cordially.

General topics for small talk:
Well, small talk has no topic in reality. Depending upon the listeners, other party, occasion or surroundings, the small talk could be a little specific or quite generic. The common topics for small talk could include comments on:

Weather: What a nice day!

Occasion: Nice party!

General set-up: Your room looks so cool!

Surroundings:  I love this place!

Popular news, tv show or movies:  Did you watch any movies lately?

Sports:  Did you watch the football game last night?

Small talk can provide a solid foundation for any conversation in all kinds of social or work related settings. It is always helpful to have some general knowledge of the listener(s) for a meaningful small talk. To further improve your social skills, take a look at my follow-up post – 30 tips on the art of small talk.

..