The Art of Small Talk While Networking
Posted March 17th, 2014
As you network for jobs, you’re inevitably going to have to meet people face-to-face. This could come because of an informational interview or because you’re attending a seminar or conference mixer or a networking event.
In other words, you’re going to have to actually talk to people you don’t know. Yes, the horror of it!
But networking and the small talk that goes hand in hand with it needn’t be a nightmare.
Read below for 11 tips on how to finesse the art of small talk.
- Keep in mind that most people at any event are nervous, too. Most people are at least a little scared when it comes to meeting new people so remember that as you mingle. That person standing alone over there probably will be very grateful that you came up to chat.
- That said, make the effort to be the first to reach out to people in the room. Approach someone with a smile on your face and your hand held out for shaking as you say your name.
- When your new contact says his or her name, say it back immediately: “It’s great to meet you, Sue.” (this helps you remember names). As you speak, see if you can say the person’s name again at least two or three times.
- Talk less than the other person. Ask open-ended questions, rather than yes-or-no queries. Not, “Did you come to this meeting last month?” Instead, ask “How often have you been coming to these meetings?
- aintain eye contact; don’t look around the room (it makes it appear as if you’re looking to escape).
- Listen actively and give feedback. Don’t just nod and say “yes” or “no.” Keep asking open-ended questions.
- Stay away from controversial subjects (politics, religion, etc.), but keep on top of current events. That way you can ask questions such as “What do you think of ….?” “Have you heard….?”
- sk for the person’s business card. Take it in both hands (if possible) and take a good look at it, reading the person’s name and company. Then place it in your coat or purse pocket. This shows that you value it.
- If joining a small group that’s already in conversation, listen for a few minutes before adding your two-cents. You don’t want to say something ill-timed.
- When you’re ready to exit the conversation, say something such as “I see a colleague/client over there I need to speak with.” Or, “I didn’t have any lunch; I need to get to the buffet.”
- The time to leave a conversation probably is shorter than you may think. You want to leave before you’ve worn out your welcome, but you don’t want to appear rude. Five to 10 minutes should suffice.
If looking for work in the San Francisco area, why not practice your small talk by interviewing with a Bayside Solutions recruiter? Take a look at our open positions and then send us your resume. If you are looking for staffing agencies in Pleasanton, contact our team today.
