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Small Talk: How Powerful Communication Grows Your Business

Featured Author:

Ann M. Evanston

Ann M. Evanston is CEO of AME Institute and AME-zing Woman, organizations committed to developing great leaders worldwide. She specializes in teaching strategies of influence and buy-in. She is also the Executive Managing Director of eWomenNetwork, San Francisco and San Ramon. As an entrepreneur for more than 10 years, she understands what it take to create small business success, increase income to revenue, and work from home doing what you love.

Learn more about Ann here and add her to your WomenCo. network!

More articles from this author:

• Grow Your Business: Friends & Strategic Partners
• Your Product is Not Your Brand: You Are!
• A Marketing Strategy for Success: Tips for the Small Business Owner

Small talk is an important communication skill in developing your business. I have learned that everywhere I go, I have the opportunity to connect with potential business partners, referrals, and even clients! Small talk builds positive relationships, encourages strong networks, and improves your Charisma Quotient. Whether you are at a holiday party, a wedding, in the line at the grocery store or bank, or attending a professional meeting, the ability to communicate and be comfortable with small talk will be a key to your success.

There are ten rules to perfect the Art of Small Talk.

1. Do a little homework.

I strongly believe in being proactive in life. When you are out and about, look approachable. When you attend a professional event, think ahead of time about who will be there. What their likes and interests are can be helpful in getting a conversation started. When all else fails, people love to be able to talk about themselves! Imagine that you are able to ask a specific question, rather than a generic question, about that person! Your charisma will increase substantially.

2. Greet people appropriately.

First and most important, if two people are talking; do not insert yourself into the conversation. It may be private, and you would be seen as an interruption. It is best to join a group of people. (Remember, one is a loner, two a pair, and three or more a group.) Start by making eye contact, smiling, and nodding. When introducing yourself, the level of formality depends on the event. A wedding? Then a hug, or a kiss on the cheek of a friend or family member is appropriate. A networking meeting? No kissing! A firm handshake as you say your first and last name is best.

3. Remember and use people’s names.

Most of us can’t remember names because we aren’t listening. Usually when someone is introducing themselves we are thinking about what we will say, or about how they look. People love it when you use their names, and nothing hurts your credibility more than asking someone barely five minutes later, “What did you say your name was again?” A tip: Slow down and pay attention. Then use the name twice after you’ve heard it. This will help you remember!

4. Share enough info to keep them interested.

As you begin a conversation, it is important that people feel you want to talk with them. When asked what you do, or where you work, have a sentence or two prepared that will make people want to know more. Don’t just say, “I’m a receptionist.” Say, “I am responsible for incoming communications, whether by phone, mail, or in-person for a 200-employee company.” Don’t just say, “I’m a coach.” Say, “I teach people how to increase their revenue by getting more done in less time.”