Book Byte #327 "The Fine Art of Small Talk" by Debra Fine

How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills – and Leave a Positive Impression!

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?? Curious Quotes from the Author

“SOCIAL/GENERAL ICEBREAKERS

1. What do you think of the movie/restaurant/party?

2. Tell me about the best vacation you’ve ever taken.

3. What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?

4. If you could replay any moment in your life, what would it be?

5. What one thing would you really like to own? Why?

6. Tell me about one of your favorite relatives.

7. What was it like in the town where you grew up?

8. What would you like to come back as in your next life?

9. Tell me about your kids.

10. What do you think is the perfect age? "

“The truth is, most people don’t want advice—they want empathy and compassion.”

“All things being equal, people will buy from a friend. All things being not quite so equal, people will still buy from a friend.”

“Showing genuine interest is flattering and essential to conversing. If you are interested in how I lost sixtyfive pounds or how I started my business or anything else about me, I feel special. I also think positively about you and want to continue talking with you. The more interest you show in me, the more interesting you become to me. The simple act of truly being interested in the other person has an amazing effect on the conversation — it just snowballs!”

“We become better conversationalists when we employ two primary objectives. Number one: Take the risk. It is up to us to take the risk of starting a conversation with a stranger. We cannot hope that others will approach us; instead, even if we are shy, it is up to us to make the first move. We all fear rejection at some level. Just remind yourself that there are more dire consequences in life than a rejection by someone at a networking event, singles function, back-to-school night, or association meeting. Number two: Assume the burden. It is up to each and every one of us to assume the burden of conversation. It is our responsibility to come up with topics to discuss; it is up to us to remember people’s names and to introduce them to others; it is up to us to relieve the awkward moments or fill the pregnant pause.”

?? Cognition of the Book’s Big Idea

If you take the initiative to start and lead discussions, you can capitalize on the power of small talk. Make a kind introduction, pose open-ended inquiries, and pay attention to your conversation partners' answers to show that you are accommodating them. Here's another useful tip. When conversing with someone, use their name. Using a discussion partner's name soon after learning it is a wonderful method to help them remember it. Additionally, calling new acquaintances by name is a simple method to make them feel valued. Naturally, we are not always able to recall everyone's names. Don't be afraid to quietly ask a friend or acquaintance whose name you can't remember to remind you of it. It will avoid a possibly awkward situation.

Until Tomorrow,

Jason (Founder Club255)