Emerging CPAs

Introverts’ Guide to Making Small Talk

The ability to make small talk is essential to creating a network. You can’t just walk up to someone and say, “Hi, I’m Brad. My GPA was 3.8. I have a background in audit and attest services, and I’m in dire need of a job.” Well, you could, but you might seem a bit strange and overeager.

Still, the idea of starting a conversation with, “Gee, looks like rain,” sounds incredibly boring. What is a networker to do? Don’t despair. Small talk doesn’t have to be a big effort. It can seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be winning friends left and right.

Be yourself
That’s common enough advice, but what if “yourself” is a painfully shy introvert who doesn’t start a conversation with a stranger far short of a life-and-death situation? Well, in that case, try taking small steps. You don’t have to, nor is it possible to, dazzle everyone in the room.

Your goal should be to make a simple connection with someone. People are more likely to connect with someone who makes them feel comfortable. A friendly demeanor and genuine interest go a lot further than razor-sharp wit in putting someone at ease. Anyone can be friendly.

Practice makes perfect
The world is full of opportunities to become well-versed in the art of small talk. Practice by conversing with anyone and everyone you meet: whether it’s your cashier, a neighbor, or a fellow patient in your doctor’s waiting room. Find out if your waiter has any pets or where your hairdresser got those great shoes. You’re sure to get more than a one-word answer.

Be prepared
It doesn’t hurt to keep a few conversation helpers in your back pocket, advises eHow.com. Keep a journal and write down some funny joke, an interesting item in the news, or a fact that blew your mind.

It wouldn’t kill you to catch an episode or two of American Idol or some other popular programming. If you’ve never seen something a lot of people seem to have interest in, you can use that too. Ask someone to explain the draw of the show to you. If it turns out that person is not a fan either, that’s something you share in common.

Use the one thing you have in common
If all else fails, you can comment on the setting. Are the drinks really strong, or is the event better attended than it was the previous year? You’re both there, after all. If you have absolutely nothing else in common, you have that. For more on small talk, visit CareerBuilder.com.