Ratings6
Average rating2.9
With practical advice and small talk "cheat sheets," THE FINE ART OF SMALL TALK teaches conversational skills and techniques that can be used in any type of professional or social situation, from networking events, job fairs, and meetings with clients, to cocktail parties where you don’t know a soul! THE FINE ART OF SMALL TALK teaches how to: Start a conversation even when you think you have nothing to say Avoid "foot-in-mouth" disease Adopt listening skills that will make you a better conversationalist Approach social functions with confidence Feel more at ease at parties, meetings, job interviews, and trade shows Turn every conversation into an opportunity for success
Reviews with the most likes.
This book details great points, especially for casual relationships or business networking. This book does discuss dating or relationships a bit, but I do think it is an important distinction that there are times when small talk is appropriate and good, and other times when deeper, more serious conversations are better. I don't remember if the author mentioned that or not. I know I tend to want to jump into the deep end right away, but I need to be more aware of small talk opportunities and be okay with them.
Human interactions and conversation is so nuanced and filled with so many variables and unwritten, unspoken rules. It's a wonder that we get anything done and a truly strange, remarkable thing that we just expect people to know how to interact with one another.
Summary of the Main Points:
Take the initiative
Remember and use their name
Let them lead
Ask open ended questions
Mirror
Change topics if needed
Exit conversation gracefully