 |
| (by Pieter Brueghel the Younger) |
While
emerging from pandemic isolation, small
talk could be an invaluable tool for reconnecting
with others.
It’s
not just a matter of “How’s the weather, over
and out,” but more a matter of forging a
genuine bond. This could be momentary, or
perhaps a bridge toward friendship.
Speech
trainer John Bowe explains that these
brief encounters have their dos and don’ts. In order to even begin, one must not
assume rejection. Chances are that others are
somewhat eager to make connections also.
Then
there are the cues along the way. If
a person is already engaged in conversation, wait
your turn before intrusively breaking in. If
someone seems “distant or lost in thought,” asking
for preliminary permission can sound something
like this: “Would you mind if I ask
you for directions?” If that person seems receptive,
be sure to follow through with a
formulated request, such as, “Do you know
of a good restaurant near here?”
With
any luck, you might find yourself heading
for lunch together. So here are a
few more tips: Avoid hot-button topics, do
not monopolize the conversation, do not
ask overly personal questions, and do
not fiddle with your phone.
Resources
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/17/avoid-these-mistakes-if-you-want-to-be-good-at-small-talk-says-public-speaking-expert.html
Copyright August 20, 2021 by Linda Van Slyke All Rights Reserved
