Ramit Sethi is probably one of the most sought-after resource speakers for social engineering and business topics. Here he tackles the delicate art of small talk.
Contrary to what the name suggests, “small talk” can mean a lot of pretty big things, not just for sales and management, but for nearly every key area of your enterprise as well. While the context and utility of small talk differs with culture, people are people wherever they are, and the principles Ramit Sethi lays out in this video are solid.
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1:38 How to get your point across without getting interrupted.
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5:45 Talk to strangers and keep the conversation going.
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13:48 Politely wrap up a conversation.
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17:00 Become a compelling storyteller.
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20:45 Make small talk with anyone.
Other things you should know
- The context of this advice is heavily culture-dependent. Small talk is universal, but the type and frequency is different, as are the situations where they are appropriate.
- You will never please everyone.
- Misusing the advice in the video can make you seem insincere.
- Maybe because you are?
- You will never please everyone. Get over it.
- Some people will dislike or hate you regardless. Get over that, too.
- When in doubt, don’t talk about yourself. Show interest in the other person.
- Small talk is often seen as “conversation for it’s own sake”. Don’t make it seem like that.
Send us some small talk or deep thoughts at the comments below!