Speaking guide
Small talk in English: start and keep a conversation going
Small talk is a small set of moves repeated in different places: open, ask, follow up, close. Rehearse those moves and you will always have something to say next, at a party, before a meeting or in the office kitchen.
A sample to rehearse
Hi, I don't think we've met. I'm Can, I work with Sarah in marketing.
So, how do you know everyone here? … Oh, nice. And how long have you been in London? … Two years! What do you like most about it so far?
That's interesting, I'd love to hear more about that place. Anyway, I should say hello to Sarah, but it was really nice to meet you.
Change the details to your own, then practise your version out loud.
How to practise it
- Write it firstPut what you want to say into short sentences. Write an opening line, three questions you could ask, one follow-up for each, and a friendly way to leave.
- Say it out loud and record itSay it out loud, or to the camera. Notice where you stop in the first take; it should sound like talking, not reading.
- Listen back, then try againListen to your take and try the same script once more. A third take is usually much smoother than the first.
Common mistakes
Instead of Answering with one word.
say Two years! I moved here for work. How about you?
Add a detail and ask back; that is what keeps it going.
Instead of Asking about salary or age.
say What do you do? / How do you know the host?
Work, the place, the event and plans are safe topics.
Instead of Walking away without a word.
say Anyway, it was really nice to meet you.
A short closing line ends it kindly.
Useful phrases
- I don't think we've met.
- How do you know …?
- How long have you been …?
- What do you like most about …?
- It was really nice to meet you.