I often get asked if I enjoy small talk. To be honest, I used to dislike it because it always felt superficial and forced. If I wasn't interested in the conversation, I would just find a way to end it. However, as I've grown in my career helping people communicate, I've realized the importance of mastering small talk. Without this skill, it becomes challenging to engage in deeper, more meaningful conversations. Small talk acts as a bridge, warming up a conversation and making it easier to delve into more significant topics.
Over time, I've learned to turn small talk into an art form. I start by asking questions about things I genuinely enjoy, such as TV shows, music preferences, or recent concerts. These are general topics that are easy to discuss and relatable to most people. I also like to play a game I call "Killer & Collar." In this game, I share something that's going exceptionally well in my life (the "Killer") and something that's holding me back or weighing me down (the "Collar"). This approach not only sparks conversation but also invites authenticity and vulnerability. Talking about both the highs and lows of life makes the conversation more relatable and encourages others to open up as well.
In conclusion, mastering small talk is crucial. It not only helps in maintaining conversations but also opens doors to deeper, more meaningful discussions and potential opportunities. Whether you're looking to build relationships or secure commission jobs, small talk is an essential skill to develop.
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