Mastering Small Talk in the US: Tips for Business and Personal Success
I start most of my English and U.S. culture coaching sessions with small talk to help my clients practice this very important skill; a tool, if used right, can make all the difference between success and failure in America. That’s why I have decided to write about small talk today to provide English and cultural tips about small talk and increase my readers’ U.S. culture and English fluency.
Be prepared to initiate small talk! In the United States, it is common for people to start conversations with strangers, including in a business context. Two important language rules apply here:
Ask open-ended questions such as, "How was your weekend?" or "What brings you here today?"
Respond with follow-up questions such as, “That sounds interesting. Do you often go to that restaurant?”
The number one tip is: Keep the conversation going! Americans do not do well with silence. They usually find it awkward. By listening actively and trying to find common ground through shared interests or experiences you will be able to build trust more easily, and your counterpart will feel comfortable around you. Another important tip is: Stay positive and friendly! Americans might be some of the most upbeat, excitable, and positive people on Earth. Smiling, eye contact, and enthusiasm will make it easier for them to relate to you. Also, pay attention to your intonation. It should sound positive. For example, don’t go down with your pitch at the end of questions. Picture the flow like a train moving forward propelled by positivity and enthusiasm built on an emphasis on can-do versus problematizing. Americans are solution-oriented. They don’t like negativity too much.
Here is an example dialogue between a Japanese business person, Yuki, and an American business person, John, using my tips mentioned:
Yuki: Hi John, how was your weekend?
John: It was great, thanks for asking. I went camping with my family. How about you?
Yuki: It was good, thank you. I went to a Japanese festival in my city. Have you ever been to Japan before?
John: Yes, I have actually. I visited Tokyo a few years ago. It was an amazing experience.
Yuki: Oh, that's great to hear. What did you enjoy most about Tokyo?
John: I loved the food, especially the sushi and ramen. I also enjoyed visiting some of the temples and learning about Japanese culture.
Yuki: That's wonderful. I'm glad you had a good experience. Have you tried any Japanese restaurants in the area?
John: Yes, I have actually. There's a great sushi place near my office that I like to go to. Do you have any recommendations?
Yuki: Yes, there's a new Japanese restaurant that just opened up downtown. It's getting great reviews. We should try it sometime.
John: That sounds great. Let's make plans to go there soon.
As usual, don't hesitate to contact me at office@lingualinkdc.net if you want to work with me as your personal English coach.
