Small Talk That Works: What to Say After 'Hello' in a Professional Setting

small talk

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You walk into a networking event or the office kitchen. You see a colleague you don't know well. You both smile and say hello.

"Hi, how are you?"

"I'm good, thanks. You?"

"Good."

...and then, the awkward silence.

What do you say next? This moment of silence is something many English learners fear, but it’s a problem that is easy to solve. The secret isn't knowing more vocabulary; it's having a strategy.

Small talk is more than just "talking about the weather." In the professional world, it's the bridge you build before you talk about business. It's how you build rapport, show you are approachable, and create connections. As part of -Rolando The Coach's team, I'll give you a simple framework to make small talk feel natural and easy.

The Three Safe Zones of Small Talk

To avoid awkward or inappropriate topics, stick to these three "safe zones." They provide an endless supply of easy conversation starters.

Zone 1: The Immediate Environment

This is the easiest place to start because it's something you both share in that exact moment. Look around and comment or ask a question about your shared context.

At a conference or event:

"This is a great event. Have you been to any interesting sessions today?"

"What did you think of the keynote speaker?"

"I love this venue. Is this your first time here?"

In the office:

"This coffee is a lifesaver today. Are you having a busy week?"

"I really like the new setup in the breakroom."

"Are you working on any exciting projects at the moment?"

Zone 2: The Professional World

This is about their work or industry in general, without being too specific or invasive. People are usually comfortable talking about their professional lives.

"So, what do you do? What does a typical day look like for you?"

"How did you get started in your field?"

"Have you been working in this industry for a long time?"

"What's the most interesting challenge you're facing at work right now?"

Zone 3: The Personal (But Not Too Personal)

This zone is for building a more friendly connection. The key is to keep it light and focused on positive, common experiences.

Weekends & Hobbies:

"Have you got any exciting plans for the weekend?"

"How was your weekend? Did you do anything fun?"

Travel:

"I hear you just got back from vacation. How was it?"

"Are you traveling far to get here today?"

Entertainment (Books, TV shows, Movies):

"Have you seen any good movies or TV shows lately?"

"I'm looking for a new series on Netflix. Any recommendations?"

The Most Important Skill: The Follow-Up Question

A conversation is like a game of catch. You can't just throw the ball once. The most important skill in small talk is learning to ask a follow-up question based on the other person's answer.

Example:

You: "Have you got any exciting plans for the weekend?"

Them: "Yes, I'm hoping to go for a hike on Saturday."

Don't say: "Oh, cool." (This ends the conversation).

Instead, ask a follow-up question:

"Oh, that sounds great! Are there good places to hike around here?"

"Nice! Do you go hiking often?"

"Wonderful. Are you going with friends or family?"

The follow-up question shows you are listening, you are interested, and it keeps the conversation moving forward naturally.

Your Coaching Challenge

The next time you are in a professional setting, don't avoid small talk. Try starting one conversation using a question from one of the "safe zones." Then, your only job is to listen to their answer and ask one follow-up question. That's it.

Small talk is a skill, not a personality trait. The more you practice, the easier it will become.

What is your biggest challenge with small talk? Please, share it in the comments below!

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