The Surprising Importance of Micro Conversations

We've all experienced them - those brief, almost forgettable interchanges as you pass someone in the hallway or make brief eye contact on the street.

Micro conversations may seem superficial on the surface, but they actually serve an important social purpose.

What are micro conversations? They are the quick greetings, comments or small talk that we engage in multiple times a day. Examples include a friendly "good morning", asking how someone's weekend was, or complimenting them on something they're carrying.

While micro conversations are by definition short and often surface-level, they are valuable for a few key reasons:

1. Relationship Reinforcement. Micro conversations help maintain and reinforce existing relationships, no matter how casual. That "hey, how's it going?" with a coworker you don't know well is a way to acknowledge your connection. With closer friends, a micro conversation can be a warm way to briefly connect.
2. Potential to Spark Deeper Connection. An upbeat, positive micro conversation can set the tone for moving into more meaningful small talk or conversation. It opens the door for one person to say "Actually, I had a crazy weekend, let me tell you about it" and transition into a longer chat.
3. They Allow You to Make a Good Impression. Micro conversations are an opportunity to come across as a friendly, thoughtful person. Something as simple as offering to lend a hand if you see someone struggling can create a positive impression that may pay dividends later.

ALSO: While micro conversations often feel reflexive, they follow some loose rules of etiquette:

• They should generally be positive in tone
• Personal enough to feel authentic but not too over-shared, and..
• Tailored to the situation - aka: Read social cues on whether the other person can extend into small talk or if they need to keep moving.

So the next time you're tempted to look down at your phone as you pass a familiar face, remember the power of an authentic micro conversation to build relationships and good will.

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