You have recently . You’re excited to show off your English-speaking skills and the first networking event is just around the corner. But what are you supposed to talk about? Generally, it is a good idea to ask a lot of questions, preferably open questions (questions that require more than a yes or no answer), and to really listen to your conversation partner’s answers. This will help you find connections and common interests which are important to Keep the conversation light and try to avoid subjects that could be cause for controversy, i.e. politics.
Need inspiration? Here’s a list with the 8 common topics for small talk with suggestions for potential questions:
1. Weather – the go-to small talk topic. Everybody loves to talk (or rather complain) about the weather.
· Oh, the heat waves this summer! We’re considering installing a pool. Do you have a pool? Do you think it’s worth it?
· It feels like we’re getting one snowstorm after the next at the moment. Can you recommend a good snow removal service? Have you been skiing?
2. Traffic – no matter where you live, there will always be traffic.
· Apparently, they’re closing the Pierre-Laporte Bridge again. Last time some people took helicopters across the river to avoid the traffic. Did you hear anything about that?
· Where do you usually park around here? I had the hardest time finding a spot.
3. Hobbies – with a bit of good luck, you might not only make a business connection but find somebody to practise your hobby with.
· Do you also play golf? I really like the Stoneham Golf Club right next to the craft brewery.
· What do you do in your spare time? We always go for walks with our dog along the river.
4. Entertainment – Netflix shows, movies, books or comedy shows, the possibilities are endless.
· Do you have Netflix? I’ve been Schitt’s Creek recently.
· Have you read the latest Louise Penny novel? I couldn’t put it down. It was a real page-turner!
5. Work – who doesn’t like talking about their profession?
· What do you do g ? Do you also work in second language education?
· How long have you been working in this field?
6. Travel – listening to people talk about their travel experiences is always inspiring.
· Did you go anywhere this summer? I heard it’s supposed to be beautiful in Greece.
· Oh, you’re from New Orleans? I’ve always wanted to go there. What’s the best time to go?
7. Food, Restaurants – this is how you learn about the best .
· I just love Japanese ramen noodles. By any chance, do you know of a good spot?
· What’s your favourite restaurant in Montreal?
8. The event you are attending – so easy to talk about what you see.
· Have you ever been to this conference before? How do you like it?
· What a beautiful venue! Do you think this is a historic building?
Whether you’re meeting by video conference or in real life, these topics are a good starting point for conversations with people you haven’t met before. Remember to ask follow-up questions and don’t forget to exchange business cards or contacts at the end of the event so you can stay in touch. And if you are struggling to end the conversation, how about you say the following?
· Thanks for the chat! I hope you enjoy the rest of the conference.
· Nice meeting you. Maybe I’ll see you at the keynote speech.