Mastering the Art of smart small talk

Read this from STAR today:
 
1. Say something of interest and topical. Keep up with the news, corporate report or newsletter.
 
2. Focus on others. Know what is going on in the company so we can congratulate people for their achievements or refer to a previous conversations, such as "How was that trip you took last week?"
 
3. Ask questions to start a conversation. Make them feel important. Let them talk about themselves and share what they know. You may earn a reputation as a brilliant conversationalist, even if you have hardly said a word!
 
4. Praise others. Boast about the entire team effort rather than yours.
 
5. Overcome shyness. Forget the powerplays. Be cordial, smile, breathe deeply and take the initiative. Introduce yourself to the CEO- congratulate him on a recent success (speech, contract, award) - or mention briefly an achievement in your department. Don't try to pin the Big Shot down.
 
Plant the seeds for future conversation.
 
Courtesy of: Patricia Fripp.
 

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