Small talk can set the tone for a successful business meeting, whether you're face-to-face or on a video call. During online meetings, engaging in relaxed, friendly conversation helps to break the ice, establish rapport, and put everyone on the same page. Yet, many people struggle to master small talk, especially in virtual environments. Feeling like you're performing on a stage can make conversations awkward and stressful.
The good news? By following a few key strategies, you can become confident in making small talk with clients, colleagues, and customers alike. Here are some essential tips on how to engage in small talk and create meaningful connections during online meetings.
Table of contents
- Learn about the meeting attendees
- Embrace clichés (but use them smartly)
- Use jokes wisely
- Focus on active listening
- Handle awkward silences gracefully
- Adapt your small talk style for remote meetings
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Conclusion
Tips for mastering the art of business small talk
1. Learn about the meeting attendees
If you’re unsure about who you’re speaking with, anxiety can easily creep in. Taking a few minutes to research your conversation partners can give you a valuable head start. Platforms like LinkedIn provide insights into people's work history, job roles, recent projects, and even mutual interests. Remembering attendees' names and referencing relevant details about their careers or projects shows that you care and helps establish rapport quickly.
When researching, look for common ground. Did they recently attend a conference you’re familiar with? Are there notable achievements or skills listed on their profile? By identifying shared interests, you can seamlessly introduce conversation topics that feel natural.
Pro Tip: Start with a personalised comment. For example, "I noticed you’re based in Barcelona. I’ve heard it’s beautiful this time of year. How’s the weather there?" This combines a thoughtful reference with a light, engaging question. Similarly, you could say, "I saw that you recently completed a major project on sustainable tech. I'd love to hear more about that." This strategy makes the conversation relevant and demonstrates genuine curiosity.
Additionally, maintaining a contact list with key notes on frequent meeting attendees can save time in future interactions, allowing you to quickly reconnect over previous discussions.
2. Embrace clichés (but use them smartly)
Weather talk may seem like a cliche, but it serves a purpose. Research shows that shared experiences, even as mundane as the weather, foster connection and ease tension. By discussing everyday topics, you create a common ground that makes others feel more comfortable, particularly at the start of a meeting.
When someone brings up the weather, acknowledge it with humour or curiosity rather than dismissing it. This keeps the conversation light and prevents awkward pauses.
For example: “It’s funny how weather is such a classic conversation starter. Though with this heatwave, I’d say it’s worth talking about!” By leaning into the cliche, you appear more approachable. You can also elevate the conversation by transitioning from weather to related topics, such as recent travel experiences or seasonal events.
Using clichés as a bridge to other topics can make the exchange flow naturally. For instance, after acknowledging the weather, you could ask, “Do you get much time to enjoy the outdoors where you’re based?” This invites further engagement without being too formulaic.
Moreover, certain environments, like international meetings, might warrant using local or regional small talk starters. Asking about cultural traditions, such as holidays or festivals, can offer a refreshing twist on common conversational themes.
3. Use jokes wisely
A well-timed joke can lighten the atmosphere, but it’s crucial to know your audience and the context of the meeting. In less formal meetings or team check-ins, a light joke can help set a positive tone and put people at ease. However, in highly formal settings or when meeting unfamiliar attendees, it's best to proceed with caution.
Tips for successful humour:
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Keep jokes light and universally relatable. Avoid sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or anything that could be misinterpreted.
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If the meeting has already established a friendly tone, you can build on it with gentle humour to maintain the relaxed atmosphere.
Example: During a team meeting, you could quip, "Looks like everyone survived Monday’s email avalanche!" This shows relatability without being overly casual. Alternatively, you might say, "Can anyone tell me how we’re already halfway through the week? Time’s got a sense of humour, doesn’t it?"
If you’re uncertain about the appropriateness of a joke, err on the side of caution. In virtual meetings, where facial expressions and reactions may not be as clear, subtle humour is often safer. Instead of telling a full joke, consider using a playful comment to keep the conversation flowing.
4. Focus on active listening
Engaging in small talk isn’t just about speaking; it’s about listening. Demonstrating that you value others’ input helps foster trust and encourages more natural interactions. Show genuine interest by asking follow-up questions and giving others room to share their thoughts and experiences.
Start by posing open-ended questions such as, “What’s been the highlight of your week?” or “What inspired you to work on this project?” This invites expansive responses and allows the conversation to develop organically.
While listening, pay attention to subtle cues like tone and pacing, which can provide insights into how engaged or comfortable the speaker feels. Try to mirror their tone subtly to create a sense of rapport.
Maintain eye contact (as much as virtual platforms allow) and use verbal cues like “That’s interesting” or “Tell me more about that” to show you’re engaged. Avoid interrupting, and instead, give a brief pause before responding to ensure the other person has finished speaking.
Pro Tip: Active listening involves not just hearing but truly understanding what’s being said. Rephrasing or summarising key points (“So, if I’m hearing you correctly, you’re saying...”) can demonstrate attentiveness and clarify any potential misunderstandings.
People feel valued when they are listened to attentively. Small talk is an art that begins with making others feel heard.
Active listening is also an opportunity to identify opportunities or challenges that may arise during the meeting. By being attentive, you position yourself as a thoughtful and engaged participant, which can elevate your professional credibility.
5. Handle awkward silences gracefully
Awkward silences happen to everyone, even the most seasoned professionals. Instead of panicking or rushing to fill the gap with random chatter, remain calm and composed. Silence can be an opportunity to transition the conversation into a new topic.
Begin by acknowledging the pause if necessary: "It looks like we’re all deep in thought for a moment!" Then, pivot to a topic that encourages input from others. Popular culture references, industry news, or upcoming events can all serve as excellent conversation starters that draw in diverse perspectives.
Small talk ideas:
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“Has anyone seen the latest episode of [popular TV show]? It’s been all over social media.”
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“I heard there’s a big conference next month. Is anyone attending?”
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“What’s a trend in the industry that’s caught your attention recently?”
You could also ask for recommendations, such as: "Any good book or podcast recommendations lately?" Questions like these help re-engage others without putting anyone on the spot.
Finally, avoid sensitive topics like politics, religion, or personal matters that might make others uncomfortable. Keeping things light and positive helps maintain a friendly atmosphere.
6. Adapt your small talk style for remote meetings
Remote work has changed the dynamics of business communication, requiring a delicate balance between professionalism and warmth to foster engagement. Virtual environments lack many physical cues, which can make it harder to read the room and maintain conversational flow.
Starting with a friendly check-in, such as “How’s everyone’s day going?” or “What’s something you’re looking forward to this week?” can set a positive tone and encourage participation. Remember that subtle digital tools like emojis, reactions, or chat comments can also enhance interactions and break the monotony.
Customising your small talk for remote meetings may also involve acknowledging common remote work experiences. Comments such as, “Anyone else’s pets love joining video calls?” can add a lighthearted touch that resonates with others.
A survey by Buffer revealed that 97% of remote workers believe communication tools play a crucial role in team engagement. This highlights the importance of small talk in virtual work culture.
Additionally, be mindful of video call fatigue. Short and purposeful conversations help keep energy levels high, so pacing your small talk is essential. Use concise, open-ended questions to avoid dragging the discussion.
Finally, pay attention to time zones when initiating small talk in international meetings. Simple questions like, “What time is it there right now?” or “How’s your morning been so far?” acknowledge differences without sounding forced.
Common mistakes to avoid
Mastering small talk involves recognising and avoiding common pitfalls. These missteps can quickly undermine rapport and hinder effective communication.
1. Talking too much about yourself
People appreciate conversations where they feel heard and valued. Over-sharing about your own experiences can monopolise the discussion and signal disinterest in others' input. Instead, ask open-ended questions to encourage others to share their thoughts.
Example: Instead of saying, "I’ve been so busy with my projects," try asking, "What’s been keeping you busy lately?"
2. Ignoring body language
Even in virtual settings, body language plays a crucial role in communication. Maintaining good posture, making eye contact (by looking at the camera), and offering occasional nods or smiles convey attentiveness. Conversely, slouching or appearing distracted can give the impression of disinterest.
Pro Tip: Adjust your camera to frame yourself clearly, so your facial expressions are easily visible.
3. Forgetting names
Addressing someone by name establishes a personal connection and shows respect. Forgetting or mispronouncing names can make interactions feel impersonal. If you're uncertain about a name, politely ask for clarification early on.
Example: "Could you remind me how to pronounce your name correctly? I want to make sure I get it right."
Avoiding these mistakes helps create an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, paving the way for meaningful conversations.
Conclusion
Small talk is an essential skill in business, helping to build trust, break down barriers, and set the stage for productive collaboration. By practising these tips, you can improve your ability to make small talk with coworkers, clients, and partners. Remember, small conversations often lead to big opportunities.
Ready to enhance your team’s communication skills and foster better business relationships? Contact our sales team to learn how we can support your growth.
