Small talk has three main purposes:
It helps to break the ice and create a friendly atmosphere
It is a great opportunity to size up the other person
It is an opportunity to showcase your personality and social status in a subtle way
What to discuss during a small talk? I would suggest something general, positive and relevant to the situation you are in. The typical topics of small talk are weather, holidays, school, university, places, sports, music, art, shopping, etc.
Topics that are controversial and those that might embarrass, offend or make people feel uncomfortable, such as religion, politics, and very personal things, should be avoided during small talk. Avoid talking about wars, your political preferences, judging people from different cultural backgrounds or your diseases and sex life.
I recommend that you smile and connect to a person on an emotional level by being understanding and sympathetic. This will help another person feel comfortable and safe.
Another thing you can do is adjust yourself to another person and create a rapport. For example, if you are a PhD in Quantum Physics and you talk to a builder. The topic of your dissertation would not be the best way to break the ice! What would work better when you talk to a person, try to find some common ground sport, for example. Or, if you see that the other person looks very sad, your laughter and a smile would feel odd. Perhaps, a neutral expression would work better. Be sensitive to people’s needs and feelings.
I recommend not rushing your speech and allowing space for pauses to make the talk relaxed and pleasant. Do not interrupt the other person; instead, listen and nod along when appropriate. Connect with what was said and continue by saying something to support the other person.
Avoid arguing, and try not to appear superior. Let the other person shine.
How can you showcase yourself during the small talk? First of all, by the way you speak and listen. If you boast and interrupt others, it can only show a lack of manners. If your speech is bare and primitive, that might imply a lack of education. People will understand that you have been properly educated if you use a rich vocabulary.
More on www.batcsglobal.com