Small Talk What is it? Where do you need small talk? Why? In English-speaking countries it is important to be able to make small talk. Illustration idea – Go to Google Image Search, type in “small talk” and find cartoons Small talk is conversation about everyday topics, between two or more people who have very often just met. It can lead to a more meaningful conversation, but it does not have to. Where do you need it? – Anywhere, especially at social gatherings. Why? In English speaking countries it is important to be able to make small talk. It is considered a matter of politeness.

Origins of Small Talk There is a great sketch on Youtube called ”Origins of small talk” – this is a good starting point.

Small Talk How good are you at small talk? What might hinder you from being good at it? Shy Self-conscious Do not know what to talk about? Do not have the vocabulary?

What should you not talk about? Illustration idea – Search for the cartoon ‘Making Small Talk cartoon 2’ from Google Image Search

What should you not talk about? There are some things one should not talk about: Income: How much money do you make? Politics? Intimate relationships Religion? Yourself, and only yourself Sales – do not try to sell something to someone you just met… Strong convictions Do you agree?

What could you talk about? Sports Hobbies The weather Family Media – films, books, magazines Holidays Home town Job Latest fashion – trends Celebrities – gossip Common interests

How can you improve? Prepare Be a good listener Practice Read up on different topics, follow the news, brush up on vocabulary, go somewhere – read about the place you are going to Be a good listener Remember people’s names, let them talk about themselves, ask questions Find a topic you both enjoy talking about – or at least one that your partner enjoys Practice

Assignment – Small talk with Prince Charles If you have the movie ”The Queen” available, there is a wonderful scene that shows just how difficult it is to talk to royalties. The scene shows the first time Tony Blair meets Queen Elizabeth, and is great to show, both for learning protocol and for seeing how difficult it is to make small talk. Assignment – Small talk with Prince Charles How do you address him? Find out! What would you say?

More small talk? There is a series you can find on Youtube called ”Small Talk”. Here, a reporter walks around in Hull and asks the public different questions. Some parts can be hard to understand, but the clip is somewhat interesting.