Small Talk in English

Introduction

• Target audience: Intermediate to advanced English learners
• Focus: Improving conversation skills through small talk
• Importance of small talk:
  • Builds connections and trust
  • Useful in social and professional situations
  • Helps ease into deeper conversations

Definition of Small Talk

• Polite conversation about unimportant, everyday topics
• Reduces anxiety in social situations

Hey Lady! Community

• Online community for women to succeed in English
• Offers:
  • Speaking partners
  • Interesting conversation topics
  • Support from expert English coaches
• Trial: Free experience for 10 days for intermediate+ learners

Starting the Conversation

• Alternative ways to ask "How are you?":
  • "I've been keeping busy."
  • "Not bad, thanks."
• Follow-up questions:
  • "How's it going with you?"
  • "What have you been up to lately?"
• Responses should reflect the grammar used by the other person.
• Other options:
  • "Nothing special, how about you?"
  • Ask specific questions:
    • "How is work going?"
    • "How was your trip to Portugal?"

Small Talk at Work

• Look for common ground for easier conversation
• Start with general questions:
  • "How's your day been?"
  • Responses: "It's been long/busy/hectic."
• Questions for new colleagues:
  • "How long have you worked here?"
  • Follow-up: "What did you do before this?"

Common Small Talk Topics

• The Weather:
  • Start with simple comments:
    • "It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"
    • "Can you believe all the rain we've been having?"
  • Transition to weekend plans:
    • "Do you have any plans?"
• Free Time and Hobbies:
  • Ask about the weekend:
    • "Have you got much planned for the weekend?"
  • Ask about interests:
    • "What do you usually do in your spare time?"

Practicing Small Talk

• Best way to practice is in conversations
• Use a PDF with learned phrases for reference
• Focus on 5-8 relevant phrases to use
• Write dialogues to practice
• Rehearse conversations out loud
• Take opportunities to practice in daily life

Conclusion

• Encouragement to practice small talk
• Reminder to subscribe for more lessons